PICTURES: MasterChef finalist Sarah Rankin hosts exclusive festive afternoon in Highlands
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An evening of aromas, flavours and laughter was on offer at a festive event celebrating Highland News and Media digital subscribers.
With 100 people in attendance, the afternoon saw an exclusive appearance from MasterChef finalist Sarah Rankin and Macdonald Aviemore Resort executive chef Edwin Blackhall showcased some of their recipes.
They discussed their work with presenter Nicky Marr and interacted with the audience at the venue.
The audience was able to ask the chefs questions and some were treated to the tasty delicacies prepared in front of their eyes.
Steve Barron, managing director of Highland News & Media which publishes the Courier, said: "We really wanted to say thanks to our digital subscribers who are our most engaged and loyal readers. Not only does their subscription grant them access to all of our content but it also supports us in delivering agenda-setting and agenda-changing journalism. A great example being the work our team has done on pushing for the dualling of the A9.
"The progress we've made on our digital transformation continues to outstrip our expectations. And we thought that kicking off our readers' festive season with the brilliant Sarah Rankin was the perfect way to celebrate and thank our subscribers.
"We have more exclusive events planned for the coming months which all subscribers will be invited to."
Sarah Rankin, born and raised in Inverness, made it to the final five of 2022’s series of MasterChef, the BBC’s flagship cooking programme.
She kicked off the event by preparing a delicious festive poached pear and chestnut cream crumble, which was followed by Edwin’s demonstration of a free range breast of chicken, apricot and sage stuffing. He also made some delightful white chocolate, cranberry and raspberry gin fudge, which went down a treat.
The event lasted a few hours and ended on a high as all attendees were given a goody bag, as well as a 20 per cent discount on any purchases made in the Spey Valley department store.
The resort was covered head to toe in glamorous Christmas decorations, and the shopping hall was transformed into a winter wonderland, perfect for seasonal gift giving.
Overall, this family fun event was a huge hit with all subscribers and those who participated.
Find out more on how to subscribe online at inverness-courier.co.uk/ subscribe.
