A contestant on the new series of MasterChef: The Professionals previously worked at a Norwich restaurant.

The BBC One cooking competition is back for its 17th series, with judges Marcus Wareing, Monica Galetti and Gregg Wallace.

Talented chefs from across the country will battle it out in the kitchen to be named the 2024 champion. 

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The first heat aired on Tuesday, October 29 and Gareth Crimmins is in the second one, which will hit screens on Thursday, October 31 at 8pm. 

Heat two contestants (L-R) Beth, Callum, Rohit and GarethHeat two contestants (L-R) Beth, Callum, Rohit and Gareth (Image: BBC/Shine TV)

Mr Crimmins, 30, lives in Bridgend in Wales and is the head chef at Heaneys in Cardiff.

He previously spent two years working at the now-closed Roots restaurant in Norwich.

It was located in Pottergate in the space now occupied by pasta and cocktail bar Yard. 

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Speaking to the BBC about his decision to apply, he said: "I turned 30 and just had to go for MasterChef - this is my year.

"I wanted to test myself against others.

"I have got great support at home with my fiancée and the kids and it just feels like this is the right time to try.”