Pilsner Urquell unveils UK Master Bartender finalists

Last year's Pilsner Urquell UK Master Bartender champion is back to defend his title after being shortlisted for the finals.

Chris Milner of Browns Bar & Brasseries in Leeds is one of the ten finalists who will now fight it out for a chance to win €10,000 at the world final.

Finalists will now be tested on Pilsner Urquell's Perfect Pour technique and their knowledge on the history of the beer.

The UK Master Bartender will get the chance to compete in the Czech Republic against 19 other Pilsner Urquell markets across the world including Germany, Ireland and South Africa.

The licensee of the winning premises will also attend the awards ceremony, as well as visiting the brewery in Pilsen.

"Pilsner Urquell's Master Bartender programme has gone from strength to strength since its launch and the number of bartenders who have entered have exceeded our expectations," said Gillian Loudon, customer marketing manager for Miller Brands.

"We are truly delighted with the brand advocates that the programme has created and they continue to educate consumers on the rich heritage of Pilsner Urquell."

Milner added: "It's so great to be back at the finals this year. It's really good to see how the beer is growing in popularity and distribution. 

"The beer is now more widely available in pubs and bars and with competitions like this, educating bar staff in how to serve Pilsner Urquell, who in turn educate the consumer, the knowledge of this really great beer is increasing."

The finalists are:

• Amy Balderston, The Lazy Lounge in Leeds

• Chris Bailey, The Mall in Bristol

• Scott Bradley, The Sanctuary in Didsbury

• Henry Dore, The Iron Duke in Hove

• Michael Harrison, Browns Bar & Brasserie in Leeds

• Rachel Hope, The Farmers in Cheltenham

• Clinton Laurie, ha ha bar & grill in Bristol

• Chris Marsden, The Lazy Lounge in Leeds

• Emily Miles, The Farmers in Cheltenham

• Chris Milner, Browns Bar & Brasserie in Leeds