They came from around the world in search of the famous Golden Spurtle. But it was an Englishwoman who lifted theWorld Porridge Making Championship in the Highlands yesterday.
And 48-year-old Lisa Williams, from Suffolk, revealed the secret of making world-beating porridge – “keep stirring”.
For Lisa, who runs a social enterprise and community cafe for adults with learning disabilities, it was a dream come true.
She said: “I love porridge. It’s a good healthy food and I can hardly believe I’m world champion at last.”
Contestants from Sweden, Russia, France, Poland, Canada, Scotland, England, Ireland, Wales, Belgium and Germany descended on Carrbridge in Badenoch and Strathspey for the big event.
It was the 26th year of the event, run by Carrbridge Community Council, with 30 finalists stirring furiously with their wooden spurtles, battling over five heats for the ultimate accolade.
The Porridge Masters had to make their traditional porridge using only oatmeal, water and salt. The porridge was judged on consistency, taste and colour by top chefs.
Lisa’s winning recipe was made using half Hamlyns Scottish Oatmeal and half Hamlyns pinhead oatmeal, along with Maldon sea salt.
As well as the title and the Golden Spurtle there was a cash prize of £500.
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