Waverley residents were among the many thousands of avid Master Chef, The Professionals watchers to cheer home a local lad.

Now, they have a chance to sample his culinary expertise.

Tom Hamblet, the popular BBC TV show winner, has taken up his first residency as head chef of the Camellia restaurant at Horsham’s five-star South Lodge Hotel.

Tom shared his culinary brilliance through a specially crafted three-course menu featuring dishes inspired by his journey through the exhaustive heats of the popular television series. 

Twenty-four-year-old Tom, whose dad Lewis and Mum Haley are also chefs at South Lodge, where bosses are thrilled and proud of the young man who has joined the team.

For a complete experience, South Lodge is now offering a Dine and Stay package, including overnight accommodation in the beautiful Sussex countryside.  His residency lasts until March 31, when he moves to a sister hotel, Lainston House, in Winchester.