Middlemiss is MasterChef champion (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

Middlemiss is MasterChef champion

9:03pm Friday 10th July 2009 in

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Jayne Middlemiss gave her competition a roasting to be crowned the winner of Celebrity MasterChef 2009.

The presenter beat athlete Iwan Thomas and former Coronation Street actress Wendi Peters in the BBC One show's final cook-off.

The star, who has battled her nerves during the contest, said: "It's so exciting to be crowned MasterChef champion, it was a truly incredible experience, and it's given me confidence and allowed me to realise my passion for cooking - I hope this is just the start of my culinary journey."

Jayne's abilities were tested to the limit throughout the gruelling final week of the competition.

The star chef wannabes were asked to produce exquisite fine dining using only open fires and clay ovens at Sir Richard Branson's hotel in the Moroccan mountains, cook for 90 crew members of hit BBC drama Ashes To Ashes, and prepare a meal for Michelin-starred chefs including Michel Roux Jr.

Jayne's title was awarded by the show's judges and presenters, John Torode and Gregg Wallace.

Torode said: "Jayne is a natural cook. She has complete understanding of modern food. Jayne really pulled it out of the bag and is a deserving winner."

Wallace agreed: "Well deserved. Jayne truly understands what it takes to make great food."