UK Barista Championships get underway

Finalist Nelie Petkova, from Café Krem, a coffee shop chain in Northern Ireland, who won the regional heat last year and went on to scoop second place overall in the national competition in 2007, will now go on to compete in the UKBC semi final event to be held on 2nd and 3rd March at Scothot, SECC, Glasgow. Commenting on her win, Petkova said: "I am thrilled to be once again representing Northern Ireland in this competition. This is the fourth year in succession that Café Krem has won through to the semi final and I am hoping that this time round we will come home with the top prize." Andrew Tucker, managing director for San Remo, the espresso machine sponsor for the UKBC, added: "I was impressed at Nelie's professional approach in her presentation as well as her skill on the coffee machine. The standard in the Belfast heat was very high and Nelie fought off some excellent competitors. She is a very deserving winner and I wish her the very best as she goes forward to the next round of the competition." Each competitor has 15 minutes to make four cappuccinos, four espressos and four of their own 'signature' drinks. As well as the flavour and texture of the drinks, the baristi are judged on presentation, professionalism, attention to detail and knowledge of their chosen coffee's provenance. This year's UKBC champion will go on to represent the UK in the World Championship event which takes place in Atlanta, USA in April 09, against over 50 other countries.