Michelin-starred chef cooks festive delights at show home and turns on Christmas lights

With the countdown to Christmas now on, Tom Shepherd, owner of Upstairs by Tom Shepherd, made an appearance at Redrow’s Curborough Lakes development, on Watery Lane, and worked his magic in the show home’s kitchen, before switching on the Christmas lights. 

Tom opened his restaurant on Bore Street in 2021 and was awarded a Michelin Star within four months, representing the first Michelin Star in Staffordshire. In 2023, Tom represented the Central Region on the BBC’s Great British Menu. He went on to win the main course round and cooked at the banquet, where he served his infamous take on Desperate Dan’s Cow Pie. 

To get everyone in the festive spirit, Tom prepared an impressive Roast Turkey Wellington, accompanied by parsnip purée, turkey gravy, and cranberry ketchup, in the stunning kitchen at the development’s Sunningdale show home. He also cooked confit turkey fritters, and confit potato fritters, served with stuffing mayonnaise and additional cranberry ketchup. 

The four-bedroom Sunningdale, which is part of Redrow’s award-winning Heritage Collection, is the perfect home for growing families. Its open-plan areas create a warm and homely atmosphere, while a separate lounge and study provide quiet sanctuaries for those moments when some time alone is needed.

Elaine Cartwright, Sales Director for Redrow Midlands, said: “We had an amazing afternoon turning on the Christmas lights at Curborough Lakes and getting into the festive spirit. 

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to Tom for turning the lights on and cooking up a feast in our Sunningdale show home, and to the people of Lichfield for showing up to help us mark the start of the festive season.

“The homes at the Curborough Lakes development are stunning examples of Redrow craftsmanship and are perfect for family life. As we approach 2025, we’re excited to invite home buyers to tour our show homes and experience life on a Redrow development.”