That's what family, friends and colleagues are asking after he was crowned Nottingham's Young Chef Of The Year 2009.

Daniel Cartledge, of Holbeck Road, was given the prestigious honour at the annual Nottingham Restaurant awards.

He was nominated for the award by his previous employer – Tonic restaurant in Nottingham – and is now aiming to be working at a top London restaurant within a few years.

Daniel, who has just completed an advanced apprenticeship in professional cookery at New College Nottingham (ncn), said: "Being named Young Chef Of The Year will definitely help me in my future career and open up opportunities for me. People will recognise me through the competition.

"I will be working hard to continue progressing."

Daniel, who now works at The Walk in Nottingham city centre, beat three other finalists to the award, which was judged by a panel of four Michelin-starred chefs, including Sat Bains, of Nottingham eaterie, Restaurant Sat Bains With Rooms.

Daniel impressed the panel with his menu of line-caught sea bass with asparagus and broad bean risotto with pea shoots, followed by chocolate Neapolitan with jam doughnuts.

Adrian Pratt, ncn director of lifestyle, said: "The calibre of young chefs who enter the competition every year is extremely impressive, and it is rewarding to see current and past ncn students succeed.

"Sat Bains and I champion this award, with the focus on developing the next generation of potential Michelin-star chefs. We congratulate Daniel on his success and wish him well for his future career."