We do not compromise on quality as food is a very important aspect in the everyday life of those who choose to live at Northwood, both from a well-being and from an entertainment perspective.

We cater for all special dietary needs and always offer a choice of full or part English breakfast. You can choose to eat at your own preferred time and meals are served where you prefer, in the dining room, in your bedroom, in the lounge or, weather permitting, in the garden.

Mark Wilkinson - Head Chef

Mark attended catering college gaining NVQ's at levels 1, 2 & 3 in Hotel Management and Catering. Since then he has had an impressive career working under Francis Coulton at the Sharrow Bay in Ullswater, the Michelin Star Chef and TV personality John Burton Race in Reading and also with one of Lancashire's finest and most famous chefs, Paul Heathcote at the Longridge restaurant.

In May 2009 Mark became the North of England chef of the year in the National Association of Care Chefs (NACC) competition and will now represent the North of England in the national competition in July 2009. He was also a National Care Awards Chef of the Year Finalist in 2007. For more information on the competition click here

Mark is qualified at an Intermediate level in food hygiene and NVQ Level 3 in nutrition and is currently training to become an NVQ assessor.

Mark is solely responsible for the creating the menu choice and always asks each individual their preferences at the meal times and always welcomes special requests from residents who know his motto is 'nothing is too much trouble' mainly due to his experience. He ensures all food prepared is nutritionally balanced using the freshest and finest ingredients sourced from good local suppliers. He also organises regular 'tasting circle sessions' where residents taste test various products and samples to introduce to menu's.

Northwood Nursing & Residential Care, Blackburn, Lancashire