Lynn's new challenge in the Sandy Park kitchen

One minute she was basking in the Florida sunshine on a family holiday, the next she’s in the heat of the Sandy Park kitchen, helping oversee the preparation of food for thousands on a match-day at the popular Exeter venue.

To say it’s been a baptism of fire for Lynn Edwards is somewhat of an understatement, but the 40-year-old has adapted quickly and efficiently into her new role as Catering Manager of the award-winning Sports, Conference & Banqueting establishment.

Having been involved at Sandy Park since 2007, initially as a bar worker and more recently as an assistant operations manager, the mum of two was recently promoted to her new role just days before the stadium geared up to stage three fixtures at this year’s Rugby World Cup.

With the eyes of the world descending on Sandy Park – both on and off the field – Lynn has not only had to oversee catering for masses in the stands, but together with Executive Head Chef, Denis Turner, they have been the driving force in helping to deliver fine dining, hospitality catering for a host of leading global sponsors and dignitaries, including HRH Prince Harry.

“It’s been pretty manic since I came back from my holiday,” explained Lynn. “Obviously I knew a fair bit about how Sandy Park operated on a daily basis, but heading up the catering side is certainly something I’ve not experienced before.

“Catering for the numbers we have here at the stadium – not just on match-days, but also during the rest of the year with all the various functions, dinners and conferences that we host – is obviously challenging, but it’s something I was keen to take on.

“Each year the profile of Sandy Park as a venue is growing massively, so to be part of the management side going forward is something I am very much looking forward to.”