A chef from a luxury country house hotel near Shepton Mallet has been named as the best young chef in the country.

Tom Fenemer works at The Newt, just outside Bruton, and last week was given the prestigious title of The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Young Chef of the Year 2022.

The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Annual Awards of Excellence tests and rewards those under 26 in the fields of Service, Pastry and Main Kitchen. Earlier in June, Tom was 1 of only 8 who achieved the Kitchen AAE.

Tom was joined by Head Chef Ben Champkin and Head Pastry Chef Alan Holloway at the awards evening at The Rosewood London.

Tom wins a £2,000 Bursary from the Savoy Educational Fund, along with many other sponsored prizes, including opportunities for sponsored work experiences, industry supplier visits and much more.

He said: "I feel so happy and excited for my future after achieving the highest scorer for the annual awards of excellence 2022! Never thought I'd achieve it especially after wanting to pull out before the semi finals and the finals! Couldn't of done it without the support of Ben and Alan pushing me through each stage! This award has given me the confidence to do more things like this and I hope I've inspired the team to get involved. Bring on the next challenge!"