WKC student wins Robbie Millar Scholarship

Ben Arnold, aged 21, fought off stiff competition between eight young finalists in the competition held at the South West Regional College in Dungannon. The scholarship has been set up in memory of Robbie Millar, founder of the award-winning Shanks restaurant in Co Down, Northern Ireland. The Michelin-star and three-AA-rosette-holder died in a car crash in 2005 at the age of 38. Ben will now travel to Germany in October as part of a three strong UK team to the World Junior Culinary Olympics. When he completes his studies on the Professional Chef Diploma at WKC, he would eventually like to open his own restaurant in Northern Ireland. As part of the winning prize, Ben won the Scholarship Sculpture created by Ross Wilson, as well as a placement at the Michelin-starred River Café in London, and a visit to Valrhona Chocolate in Tain L'Hermatage and to Llly Coffee in Italy. Robbie's wife Shirley, who presented Ben with his prize, commented: "Robbie was dedicated to seeing young talent develop and felt it was only fair that they should be given the chance to demonstrate their ability and realise their potential. The finalists in this competition are among the very best in the UK and Ireland." Weblink: www.westking.ac.uk