A YOUNG Cumbrian chef has won a prestigious national award after his second attempt.

Arthur Bridgeman Quin, 21, from the Punch Bowl Inn and Restaurant at Crosthwaite, near Kendal, won the 2017 William Heptinstall Award.

The award, which was first established in 1972 is made each year to enable a young chef to widen their culinary experience while travelling outside the UK.

The winner of the award receives financial support to experience the cuisine of their chosen area, as well as undertaking stages, or work experience in their chosen restaurant oversees.

The candidates had to talk about their careers to date, future aspirations, and showcase a clear understanding of ingredients, menu development, and the marriage of wine with food. They also had to explain to the judges how they proposed to use the £3,500 award money to widen their culinary skills.

Arthur intends to use the award to travel to and spend time in different areas of France.

He said: "The amount I stand to learn from this opportunity is incredible and you only have to look at the standard of previous winners to see what can be achieved after winning this award.

"There's no doubt that I'll be pushing myself out of my comfort zone but I've always wanted to travel and for me, France is a perfect choice as it's the home of proper classical cooking. This is certainly an opportunity that doesn't come along every day and I'll look forward to planning it – and learning French – over the next 18 months."

Arthur will now have to put together a draft travel plan for the Charity Trustees, which will include the names of the establishments where he proposes to work and study.

He will then have up to two years to take the trip.