Bristol man is world's best bartender

Bristol barman Danny Walker has been crowned the world's best bartender in a competition run by Czech beer brand Pilsner Urquell.

Walker, of the Square bar, beat off tough competition from bar workers from 15 other countries to be Pilsner Urquell International Master Bartender of the Year at the three-day final in Prague.

In total 2,600 people entered the awards. The final stage of the competition saw Walker and his fellow finalists sit a written exam and face an interview in front of a panel of beer experts.

They were even tasked with demonstrating their pouring skills in front of an enthusiastic public on Prague's Old Town Square.

Walker — who has worked in the hospitality industry for nine years — said: "I want to thank everyone at Pilsner Urquell for this amazing title.

"It's been a great experience over the last three days and I honestly feel that all the bartenders here are worthy winners."

Nick Miller, managing director of Miller Brands UK, which owns Pilsner Urquell in the UK, said; "We're all really pleased for Danny — he's a great guy and just what we are looking for as an ambassador for Pilsner Urquell.

"He was up against some really tough competition, but his professionalism and work ethic really shone through.

"When Danny was awarded the title of UK Master Bartender of the Year we expected great things from him and so to be crowned as International Master Bartender is just tremendous."