Incredible rose veal, so-so fish courses and lobster cooked in every different way possible was on the menu in last week's London and South East heat, with chef Mark Froydenlund making it through to the final round. Now it's time to look to the North East, where top chefs will be hoping to represent their region at the final banquet. Here's who's stepping up to the plate.

Chris has been cooking ever since he was young, and even took work experience when just fourteen at school at the Michelin-starred Vinyard at Stockcross with John Campbell. He credits chef Germaine Schwab at Wintergham Fields for his love of traditional techniques and cooking methods, which now shines through in his cooking. However, Chris also likes to experiment and play with people's perceptions of food, so expect some surprises in the kitchen.

Tommy took over as head chef at The Black Swan in 2013 and managed to retain its Michelin star. He's worked there since he was just sixteen, when his parents – both farmers – bought the pub in 2006. He's worked in restaurants such as Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons and many other top-rated establishments in London, which he credits with instilling in him a love for the best produce, much of which he now sources from across Yorkshire.

Born in Leeds, Mini switched from a desire to study art to a life in the kitchen, learning under legendary chefs such as Marco Pierre White and Gordon Ramsay after his initial training at catering college. He's also worked closely with Angela Hartnett – a Great British Menu veteran – so will be eager to follow in her footsteps and do the North East proud.