Top Ayr College chef awarded MBE by the Queen

Jul 23 2010 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

WHEN college chef Norman Robertson met the Queen, there was only one thing on his mind.

Talking food.

The dedicated lecturer, honoured with an MBE for his services to education, has always been known for talking shop.

But even a meeting with Britain’s most famous lady couldn’t stop Norman from nattering about his day job.

He laughed: “We were soon talking about the college and the work I’ve been doing with the students.

“I told her all about the catering department and our various achievements, which she seemed very interested in hearing about.

“She also asked about my career in education and we spent the time chatting about all things cooking.

“It was an absolute honour for me to meet her and the funniest thing was realising how small she is in person.”

Norman, who’s led a succession of Ayr College cookery teams to high profile awards on the world stage, is now preparing for another year in the kitchen.

And he’s pledging to continue in his role, which has helped produce a stream of talent into Ayrshire’s top restaurants.

Norman, 60, added: “I owe a big thanks to our principal Diane Rawlinson, who by all accounts took a lot of time out to put me forward for this award.

“Her support has meant a great deal to me.”

And Mrs Rawlinson insists her star chef is worth his moment in the spoitlight.

She said: “We are delighted and extremely proud of Norman receiving an MBE.

“To be recognised at this level underlines the sterling work Norman carries out. For him to receive an award of this calibre from Her Majesty The Queen, reflects his passion, enthusiasm and commitment to the work he carries out at Ayr College.

“He is a real inspiration to our students and staff alike, and on behalf of everyone at Ayr College, I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate him.”