Keiron Murphy wins UK Scholarship Award 2016

Keiron Murphy of Leeds, West Yorkshire claims winner’s title of Le Cordon Bleu London’s UK Scholarship Award 2016 after all-day final on 2^nd June.

Since early 2016, the team at Le Cordon Bleu London have been searching for the next top chef right across the country alongside partnering chefs Will Holland for Wales and the Midlands, Simon Hulstone for the South West, Anna Hansen for London and the South East, Mark Greenaway for Scotland and Northern Ireland and Frances Atkins for the North.

With a record number of applications this year, just 14 candidates made it through to the final which took place on the 2^nd June at the prestigious culinary arts, wine and management school.

After battling through the tough practical tasks during the grand finale, Keiron has been awarded the ultimate prize worth over £35,000 which includes a place on the coveted Diplôme de Pâtisserie, followed by a three month Diploma in Culinary Management. The prize also includes luxury accommodation in central London courtesy of its partner Urbanest and an internship under the guidance of Clare Smyth MBE, at Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant, Royal Hospital Road, Chelsea where Clare has been Chef Patron for the past six years and became the first British female chef to hold and retain 3 Michelin stars.

On his success, Keiron commented: “Being given the opportunity to train at Le Cordon Bleu is a privilege that only a few people can claim. The calibre of talent and prestige that the institution holds is phenomenal. I feel honoured.”

Graeme Bartholomew, Le Cordon Bleu Pâtisserie Master Chef and part of the scholarship judging panel says: “Keiron showed dedication and was clearly inspired. He knew he was in a job he didn’t want to be in, so he took a chance on a cake decorating course which showed him where his true passion lies.

We had an extremely high calibre of candidates this year, which made our decision even harder. But as a teaching chef, it is extremely humbling to see the effort and commitment each individual gave.”

The evening saw guests including leading chefs, senior hospitality figures, and journalists gather at the London school for the announcement of this year’s winner, with an array of fine canapés and cocktails created, specifically for the event, by Le Cordon Bleu Master Chefs and students.

View the pictures of the event below.