THE WINNER of one of TV’s best known cooking shows is set to take up a new role as Hampshire’s food tourism ambassador.

James Durrant, who was crowned main course winner of BBC 2’s Great British Menu last year, will join up with Hampshire County Council’s Visit Hampshire website for the voluntary role, which is designed to highlight the county as a top food tourism destination.

Mr Durrant, who is the the chef patron at The Plough Inn at Longparish, will champion the best dining experiences, suppliers and growers that Hampshire has to offer in a role which is said to be the first of its kind.

Talking about the new position, Mr Durrant said: “Hampshire is a great place to escape to, especially for people living in London.

“It’s got that slower pace of life you’d want for your down time, but also really good quality places to eat and stay.

“It’s that combination that makes it special.”

In his first role as ambassador, Mr Durrant will host a ‘Hampshire themed’ dinner at Angela Hartnett’s London restaurant, Merchants Tavern, using some of the county’s best products to impress some of the country’s top travel, food and lifestyle journalists.

He will be joined by four other top Hampshire chefs who will each cook a course, including Luke Holder at Lime Wood in the New Forest, Andres Alemany at The Purefoy Arms in Preston Candover, Pulpo Negro in Alresford and David Wykes at Verveine in Milford-on-Sea.

Speaking about the appointment, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for economy, transport and environment, councillor Seán Woodward, said: “It’s great news that James Durrant will be Visit Hampshire’s first Food Tourism Ambassador.

“Tourism brings in £3billion each year to Hampshire, and local produce and original restaurants are some of the elements that make Hampshire unique for visitors and residents alike.

“James’ extensive experience as a chef and his local knowledge of Hampshire will highlight the top food attractions, restaurants and produce grown in the county.

“His work with Visit Hampshire will help the tourism economy by illustrating another reason to visit the county.”