Fifth Mystery Judge Revealed: Matt Wright, founder of Great Food Club

The Leicestershire Curry Awards 2025 welcomes a new face to its judging line-up this year – Matt Wright, founder of Great Food Club, an independent guide to the very best food and drink businesses across the East Midlands. Matt has spent more than a decade championing independent restaurants, pubs, cafés and producers through Great Food Club’s website, handbook and awards. His work has taken him to hundreds of kitchens across…

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Fourth Mystery Judge Revealed: Gary Newby, News Editor at ITV News Central and Chief Judge of the Leicestershire Curry Awards

I must have the best job in the world when, at this time of the year, my chief role is to visit the restaurants, takeaways and other eateries which have made it through to the shortlist for the Leicestershire Curry Awards. The choicest places to dine, as decided by the public, are spread before me and my fellow judges upon which to feast, analyse and cogitate before deciding collectively which…

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3rd Mystery Judge Revealed: Nadia Etteridge

With a distinguished career at Leicestershire Police, Nadia Etteridge is a proud advocate for the county and a passionate supporter of its thriving food scene. A dedicated curry enthusiast, Nadia made her judging debut this year—an experience she describes as “a genuine privilege” and “a wonderful journey from start to finish.” “Choosing between the finalists was no easy task. The standard was consistently high, with every establishment bringing something special…

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2nd Mystery Judge Revealed: Sophie Cook – Executive Editor, BBC Radio Leicester

As a girl who grew up in Leicester, I’m absolutely buzzing to be a judge for the Leicestershire Curry Awards. This city is in my bones — its energy, its diversity, and of course, its unbeatable food scene. Leicester isn’t just where I’m from; it’s who I am. And if there’s one thing that unites us here, it’s our shared love of a good curry. From family takeaways on a…

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First Mystery Judge Revealed: Rob Makes it a Judging Hatrick!

The first mystery judge for this year’s Leicestershire Curry Awards has been revealed… and it’s Rob Nixon – a man who is no stranger to the judging hot seat. 2025 marks the third year that Rob has served on the judging panel for the Leicestershire Curry Awards, having previously taken part in both 2023 and 2024. Picture credit: Pukaar News It’s an experience he savours and one he has previously…

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Back for seconds! Rob Nixon reprises his judging role for 2024

Rob Nixon is enjoying his second year in the judging hot seat -something he describes as a “fantastic culinary adventure!” Living and working in Leicestershire, Rob is quite au fait with curry. In his words he certainly ‘knows his vindaloo from his jalfrezi!’ Last year he enjoyed his experience of being a judge so much, that he is back for seconds! “It was a tremendous honour to be invited back,”…

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Mystery judges set out on exciting culinary mission…

Our mystery judges have set out on the road, visiting those fine establishments which made it through to September’s grand final… The judges are busy visiting takeaways and restaurants around the county – sampling the best that their menus have to offer. During their stay, they will also be savouring the overall dining experience – noting the service, cleanliness and overall atmosphere at each venue to decide if it’s worthy…

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