The Ivy commis chef April Partridge named Hot Talent 2012

Partridge, 18, was picked by judges - front-of-house consultant Esher Williams, chef Ben Spalding and Restaurant editor William Drew - for her passion, determination and all-round ability.

The awards, currently in their first year, aim to celebrate, nurture and reward a member of the industry aged under 30 who goes above and beyond the duties of their job.

Speaking after the presentation of the award at The Big Event at London's Park Plaza Westminster Bridge last night, Partridge said she was 'amazed and honoured' to win.

"It makes all the hard work worth it," she said. "It's not often I'm lost for words, but tonight I am."

Women chefs​

Partridge, who has worked full time at the London restaurant for 18 months, told BigHospitality she had received lots of support from her colleagues in entering the competition and for furthering her career and hoped that winning the award would give her leverage to help boost the number of female chefs coming up through the ranks.

"There aren't enough female chefs who are highlighted in the industry and it's time for a female chef to inspire people," she said. "My dream is to be a TV chef. I really want to get what we do out into the media and if people know about me then I can start approaching TV shows and really push that message out."

Finalists​

All six finalists - Partridge, Alannah Doe, Jonathan Wheeldon, Laura Daniels, Shaun Longmire and Tom Bowen - were present at the Big Event last night to find out who had won.

The award was given out as part of Hotelympia 2012 and was supported by BigHospitality and sister publication Restaurant Magazine.

The winner will now receive mentoring from Spalding and Williams who were also there to present the award.