Wilmslow care home chef tastes success at national awards

A care home in Wilmslow is celebrating after one of its team members earned national recognition.   

Oli Jackson, Head Chef at  Long Stone Manor on Manchester Road, was named chef of the year at the Care UK Stars Awards 2026 following his success in the final cook-off.

The award honours chefs across more than 250 care homes nationwide who create meals that are nutritious, tasty and appealing – which is key to excellent service for residents.

In the final heat, six chefs from five care homes went head-to-head, creating bespoke menus to present to judges.

Oli served an impressive two-course menu, which included a venison loin with fondant potato, Jerusalem artichoke and truffle purée, crisp kale and parsnip crisps, finished with a rich red wine reduction. For dessert, he whipped up a lemon and Manchester honey cheesecake with mascarpone and honeycomb crisp.

Oli said: “I’m delighted to have won the chef of the year award – it’s a huge achievement! There are so many misconceptions about food in care homes, but moving into care certainly doesn’t mean giving up great‑tasting meals. 

“The final heat was intense, and I was competing against so many talented chefs from around the nation. I’m extremely chuffed to take home the trophy and be recognised at a national level.”

Oli joined Long Stone Manor in February 2025 after more than 15 years in gastro pubs and restaurants. A passionate advocate for nutrition and wellbeing, Oli ensures every resident enjoys high-quality, beautifully presented and tailored meals that are both delicious and nourishing. 

His holistic, personalised approach to dining is also appreciated by everyone at Long Stone Manor. From the moment they arrive at the home, residents play an active part in menu planning, and Oli regularly speaks with them to gather feedback, ensuring they have a voice in shaping their meals and feel included in the dining experience.

He also goes above and beyond to ensure food is fun and festive. As part of its dining experience, the home regularly marks personal celebrations and hosts themed meals and events that are chosen by residents. This has included celebrating Oktoberfest with German-themed food and creating beautifully decorated cakes to honour significant milestones.

Laura Foster, Home Manager at Long Stone Manor, said: “We’re super proud of Oli for winning chef of the year.

“Oli’s talent, creativity and passion shine through in every dish he prepares. He consistently goes above and beyond to make mealtimes enjoyable, nutritious and personal for residents, and it’s fantastic to see his hard work recognised nationally. Cheers to Oli!”

Long Stone Manor is a state-of-the-art care home that provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, for up to 60 people. It has been designed to promote independence and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation. 

The home is listed in Knight Frank's 2026 guide, which showcases the UK's top 100 best-in-class care homes.