Dream Ritz job for Leah

Many people chase their dreams. Not everyone is so lucky as to achieve them. But that is the case for young Leah Wynes, who has been given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work at the world famous Ritz Restaurant in London.

Last Sunday 19-year-old Leah, from Coombe Lane in Shepton Mallet, packed her bags and moved up to the capital.

She began working as a chef in the Ritz the very next day.

The former Whitstone school pupil learnt her culinary skills while working first at Andre's restaurant in Union Street, Wells, and then at Bowlish House in Shepton.

"I've always wanted to be a chef, ever since I was a child," said Leah.

She trained at Yeovil College, doing an apprenticeship in 2008, and then moved on to an advanced apprenticeship at Bath College.

"When in Bath, I entered a chef versus chef competition, which was a bit like a cook-off," she said. "I entered my menu and it was chosen as one of eight. I competed against Bath Priory and The Olive Tree Hotel. I managed to come second, losing only to The Priory."

Leaving home and her family and friends and moving to London where she knows absolutely no-one is a massive step for the teenager. But she knows it is the opportunity of a lifetime she cannot turn down. And for her it really is a dream come true.

The story of how she got the job is also the stuff that dreams are made of.

"I always wanted to work in London," she told the Journal just before she left. "So I wrote to loads of places, big restaurants with big reputations. I explained what I'd done, what awards I'd won, and the passion I have for cooking.

"I also thought I'd just write to the Ritz and see what happened. The Ritz was the only one that replied.

"I never believed I'd get to work somewhere like the Ritz. I've rented an apartment in Chiswick and am just so excited about it all, and very proud.

"I can't wait to start. I guess I can't really believe it's happening. It's a dream come true."