Former Calderside Academy pupil John Sanger, 18, joined fellow City of Glasgow College students in helping stage a prestigious cooking event headlined by the former Ready Steady Cook frontman.

Brian, an ambassador for Clydesdale Bank, was helped by students in preparing and serving a three-course meal for 60 guests — local business people, food and drink experts, and college staff — at the college’s Scholars’ Restaurant.

Hospitality Management student John, who hopes to open his own restaurant one day, said: “I was really excited to take part in this event as working alongside Brian Turner will look great on my CV. I’ve been really enjoying my course so far and think it’s great that we get to take part in such high-profile events.” Mr Turner told guests at the lunchtime event: “This industry is about finding, keeping, and leading a team, and the City of Glasgow College staff have clearly done that well. The success of the industry is in the hands of you, the students.” “I spent two years at college when I was younger and had a great time. Enjoy it while you’re here, people! I hope college inspires you to get your head down. I’m all about horizons – as soon as you get to one, there’s another one for you to aim for.” Food and drink is one of Scotland’s key growth sectors, worth over £13 billion to the Scottish economy and employing more than 360,000 people. In recognition of the sector’s growing importance to Scotland, 2015 has been designated the Year of Food and Drink.

Mr Turner supported students in the kitchen and offered advice as they rose to the challenge of delivering the meal. Around 40 college students took part in the exercise, with half based in the kitchen and the other half responsible for front of house duties. The menu – which featured west coast scallop pudding, noisette of lamb stuffed with chicken and wild mushroom, and white chocolate and raspberry trifle – was specially created by Brian to showcase Scotland’s quality produce. It was also designed to help improve students’ technical skills.

The event involved students of HQ Professional Cookery, HND Hospitality Management, and NQ Events.

Willie McCurrach, Curriculum head for Food at City of Glasgow College, told assembled guests during the event: “The students have made all of us staff very proud this afternoon. Brian Turner has a great passion for our industry. To list all his accolades, we would be here until dinner time.”