A YOUNG chef has landed a dream job at a top London restaurant – an achievement he said was thanks to being inspired by staff at a Topsham eatery. Daniel Bonner, from Exeter, has just been set on as a demi chef de partie in Fifteen, a restaurant famously

A YOUNG chef has landed a dream job at a top London restaurant - an achievement he said was thanks to being inspired by staff at a Topsham eatery.

Daniel Bonner, from Exeter, has just been set on as a demi chef de partie in Fifteen, a restaurant famously founded by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

The 19-year-old said his interest in cooking derives from when he worked at Le Petit Maison on Topsham's Fore Street.

"I was doing the washing up there (at Le Petit Maison) and I became really interested and inspired as I watched the chefs at work," said the former Exeter College cookery student.

Having also previously done stints working for Gordon Ramsay and Devon's own top chef Michael Caines, Daniel said he was delighted with his new role.

"I originally came to Exeter College to study A levels in maths, physics, geography and graphics, but then I changed my course to professional cookery and completed level 2 and then level 3 last year, and I've never regretted my decision.

"I remember one day when I was 16 I was seated in an office in a shirt and tie waiting to be interviewed for a placement with an engineering firm.

"It would have been a really great opportunity had I taken it, but I suddenly realised it just wasn't for me."

Asked why he changed his mind and decided to become a chef instead, he said: "I love food. That's my honest answer.

"It might sound a bit cheesy, but if you have a passion for something then that's all you want to do.

"It's really good working at Fifteen, because all around me I can see other people who are really passionate about food too.