Friends to host memorial evening in honour of young chef James Rehill

Friends and former colleagues are to host a cookery memorial evening in honour of young chef James Rehill who died suddenly last year. 

Chef Brian McDermott will lead the cooking demonstrations while visitors will get the chance to share their memories of James who died aged 25 from SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy).

James’ last job was that of junior sous chef at Martijn Kajuiter’s Michelin starred Cliff House Hotel in Ireland. 

Martijn said: “James was a gigantic pillar of support for the young guys in the team, he was a man of many talents. He was very outspoken and was probably one of the best team players I have seen in my kitchen. 

“It is such a pity that James did not get more time on this world to fully show his potential as a chef.” 

After initially working under Brian McDermott, James moved to Scotland where he plied his trade at Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles. 

Andrew Fairlie, chef-patron at his two Michelin starred restaurant, recalled: “Not only was James a very talented young chef with I'm certain a very bright and successful future ahead of him, he was more importantly a beautiful person. I was very lucky to have had James with us for five years as part of our team.” 

During his time north of the border, James became good friends with Ian Scaramuzza who is now head chef for Claude Bosi at two Michelin starred Hibiscus in Mayfair.

Ian said: “James was my best mate. We worked together for four and a half years and shared a flat also. 

“James was a great guy who loved a party! Also he was a seriously talented, passionate and motivated chef.” 

The event will take place on 17 October at Redcastle Hotel, Inishowen, Co. Donegal. More details can be found via the Facebook page.