Kitchin handles the heat to fight off rivals for place in TV cooking final

Published on Tuesday 14 April 2009 09:37

SCOTLAND's youngest Michelin-starred chef, Tom Kitchin, has retained his title as Scottish finalist in BBC2's Great British Menu.

Tom – who was crowned last year's Scottish winner – will now go on to compete for the British crown after beating off tough competition from Alan Murchison of L'Ortolan, Shinfield and Berkshire restaurants.

The chef had to prepare a four-course meal fit for the 3 Rifles at Redford Barracks after they returned from Afghanistan.

Their meals were then served to a panel of judges, who decided that Tom would be the chef to represent Scotland at the final.

Tom said: "I managed to get to this position last year, but this time, I want to go all the way. I'm going to be working hard to make sure one of my next dishes is served at the Homecoming banquet. I've really tried to think carefully about what the troops would want to eat to bring back all the happy memories of home."