Emily Milne, 20, a pastry chef at Leasowe Castle, has been crowned ‘Young Chef of the Year’ at the Wirral Tourism Awards.

She scooped the prize after ‘wowing judges with her forward-thinking culinary creations’ served at the 16th century property’s in-house restaurant, Brasserie 1593.

The awards ceremony took place at Floral Pavilion Theatre and Conference Centre in New Brighton.

Emily said: “To have gained the title of ‘Young Chef of the Year’ at such an early stage in my career is brilliant.

“Ever since a young age, my dream was to become a chef as the art of all things culinary was instilled in me thanks to my mum’s home cooking. After undertaking two courses at The City of Liverpool College, I received a Level 2 Diploma in Professional Bakery and a Level 2 and 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Professional Chefs (Patisserie & Confectionary). Having worked at Leasowe Castle for the past year, it is my role to head the pastry division and create a wide assortment of sweet and savoury nostalgic British home-comforts with a contemporary twist.”

Overlooking the Wirral Peninsula coastline, Leasowe Castle is home to Brasserie 1593 and Knights Cocktail Bar.

General Manager of Leasowe Castle Mike Dewey said: “The team and I are thrilled that Emily has been recognised for her dedication and commitment to providing continuous culinary excellence.

“In line with the venue’s recent £3 million rebrand and refurbishment, Emily’s innovative ideas have certainly helped to shape the evolution of castle’s the foodie arm and perception as being a local dining and drinks destination with a difference. As we want the new look to be reflected in our offerings, we have invested time and training into the development of our entire kitchen staff so that they are equipped with the knowledge and expertise of delivering new techniques such as molecular gastronomy. Watch this space for something so unique…”