Masterchef star wins music gong

ALanarkshirewomanwhocookedupastorminthe kitchen this year has been also been recognised for her outstanding musical talents.

Laura Macdonald, who just missed out on the final of the BBC’s Masterchef competition, was honoured at the Scottish Jazz Awards.

Laura, from Carluke, was the winner of the best instrumentalist gong.

The saxophonist and teacher had an equally busy year playing concerts and jazz festivals across the country while also competing in Masterchef.

Jill Rodger, director of Glasgow Jazz Festival and producer of the Scottish Jazz Awards, said:“It’s been a wonderful year for jazz music in Scotland despite the challenges and it’s been inspiring to see the new heights reached and boundaries pushed within the scene.

“I’d like to congratulate all of our nominees and winners on their recognition at this year’s Scottish Jazz Awards.

“They are all fantastic ambassadors for Scottish jazz and it is inspiring to see so many women picking up trophies across the board this year.”

Laura won the hearts, and the stomachs, of the nation earlier this year with a journey on the BBC cookery series hosted by JohnTorode and Gregg Wallace.

The 46-year-old narrowly missed out on the grand final but her progress has made Lanarkshire proud after continuing to wow the judges throughout the series – notably for her take on crispy duck; her kids’ favourite takeaway.

That saw her serve up a succulent duck breast on pea puree, with crispy duck sesame toast and shredded duck.

And she did all that having survived a fairly serious cut to her finger during preparation.

Her duck breast, pink and juicy with crispy skin, was praised by the diners, with judge and presenter Gregg saying it was “buttery melt in the mouth”.