English woman who ‘chased the dream’ named 2019 World Porridge Making Championships winner Contestants who compete for the coveted Golden Spurtle all share a ‘mutual love of porridge’

An English oatmeal enthusiast has been crowned the winner of the 2019 World Porridge Making Championships after continuing to “chase the dream” despite being burned at previous competitions.

Award winner Lisa Williams, 48, from Suffolk, will take home the coveted Golden Spurtle thanks to her “beautifully rounded bowl of porridge,” which judges praised for its texture, seasoning and flavour.

Now in its 26th year, the World Porridge Making Championships tasks contestants with creating a traditional bowl of the hearty dish using just three ingredients – oatmeal, water and salt.

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Held in the village of Carrbridge, in Badenoch and Strathspey in the Highlands, the competition attracts entrants from around the world. Participants from countries including France, Poland, Russia and Canada rolled up their sleeves and got stirring at this year’s event.

‘Chasing the dream’

Ms Williams, who runs a social enterprise and a community cafe for adults with learning disabilities, said she was “surprised and thrilled” to win the “magical” competition.

“I discovered the Golden Spurtle in 2015 and immediately fell in love with the competition,” she said.

“In 2016 I made it to the final six and have been chasing the dream ever since.”

She added: “I absolutely love the competition. From the moment you step into the hall, you are welcomed like family.”

Celebrating ‘mutual love of porridge’

The award’s name is a nod to the traditional Scottish cooking utensil used to stir porridge. The rod-like instrument, which is made from wood and is thought to date back to the 15th Century, helps to prevent lumps from forming during the cooking process.

Carrbridge Community Council member Charlie Miller, who helps to organise the championships, said attendees had enjoyed “a fantastic weekend celebrating a mutual love of porridge”.

Alan Meikle, managing director of porridge oats company Hamlyns of Scotland, which sponsors the event, said: “It’s great to see that it’s not just us Scots who are so passionate about porridge. It’s really interesting to see how something made from just oatmeal, salt and water can vary so much.”

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