Hansom spent two days working with catering students from the college to design, prepare and deliver a fine dining experience at the college’s Glasshouse restaurant. The event quickly sold out, with 42 guests enjoying a bespoke tasting menu created and delivered largely by the students themselves.

Originally from Darlington, Hansom returned to the town to mentor the students, sharing her experience and helping them deliver a high-level restaurant service for paying guests.

Speaking about the event, Hansom said: “It’s fascinating work. I love coming into Darlington College to help the students develop their skills and help them showcase classic dishes and what is new in the industry.  

“It’s great to get them involved in staging an event but it’s important that they do the bulk of the work. I am usually in the kitchen on my own, so it was lovely being at college and having so many helping hands. It was a great experience for the students under real pressure. It is what they will be doing in industry shortly and this will help them get a job.”

Guests at the event were treated to a tasting menu featuring rapeseed focaccia and Black Sheep stout soda bread with whipped marmite butter, followed by slow-cooked hen’s egg with smoked potato foam, Jerusalem artichoke, pickled mushroom and Madeira sauce.

Charlie Pattison, a student at Darlington College, added: “Working with Ruth really did inspire me. I have always enjoyed coming to Darlington College where the facilities and tutors are great. One day, I hope to work as a chef in London.”

Through initiatives like this, members of The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts continue to champion the development of culinary skills across the UK, supporting education providers and industry leaders in nurturing the chefs of tomorrow.