Porridge making comes home as Highland chef reclaims world title A Gaelic singer has regained the title of world porridge-making champion a year after being knocked off his spurtle by an English rival. Student John Boa, from Strathglass, Inverness-shire, claimed the main title at the World Porridge Making Championships for the second time, having won previously in 2011. Last year's contest was won by Benedict Horsburgh, originally from London and now living in Germany. Mr Boa, 52, said: "All I can say is that practice makes perfect. I am absolutely delighted to win, and I'm sure that I'll get a great reception from fellow students and staff at the college when I go back to Skye next week. The Golden Spurtle awards, sponsored by oatmeal producer Hamlyn's, are in their 20th year and held in the Highland village of Carrbidge, near Aviemore. The top prize goes to the competitor deemed to have made the best traditional blend of oatmeal, water and salt. Mr Boa put his success down to his ingredients of medium oatmeal, Carrbridge tap water and ordinary kitchen salt. Nick Barnard took the title of speciality champion for his recipe of fruity date porridge, using a mix of dried apricots, dates, apples and cinnamon. He said: "It's the third time I have entered, and I'm absolutely delighted that it's third time lucky." Judging panel member George McIvor, from the Master Chefs of Great Britain, said: "It really was a fantastic competition this year, but the judges were unanimous in awarding the Golden Spurtle title to John Boa, who had perfected taste, texture and seasoning. We were also very impressed with the huge variety of dishes in the speciality section, and awarded the title to Nick Barnard whose fruity deate porridge was creative, delicious and beautifully presented.