AMATEUR chef Debbie Halls-Evans has revealed her relief at being given immunity in cookery show The Taste — after she narrowly missed being kicked out for serving the “spoon of doom”.

The mum-of-three, from Horwich, said that her confidence had been badly knocked after being told by Nigella Lawson that she had served the worst dish of macaroni and cheese cushions, but mentoring from judge Ludo Lefebvre helped bring her back into the game.

The 43-year-old, who used to run Delicieux Cafe, at the Doffcocker roundabout, off Chorley Old Road, also said she did not realise she had such a strong accent until she watched herself on television.

Mrs Halls-Evans said: “Last week was a bit of a nail-biter. At the time of the ‘spoon of doom’ it really knocked my confidence for six. You’re only as good as your last dish after all.

“But as the programme goes on you’ll see how the mentors nurture the cooks and this in turn builds your confidence.

“I won immunity last week in an earlier challenge which was a benefit to me in the end.

“To have Michael Caines not only taste my food, but also say that mine is the best was amazing. He’s one of my heroes when it comes to food.”

Talking of her Northern roots, she said: “I have to say, I didn’t realise I had such a strong Bolton accent until I heard myself back.

“I was born and bred here, but I guess when you’re around people with the same accent as yourself you don’t notice it as much.”

Tonight’s episode sees guest chef Yotam Ottolenghi talk about spice.

Mrs Halls Evans said: “Yotam Ottolenghi is incredible. You will see me cook nam jim chicken and there will be more banter between me and Ludo.”

  • Catch Debbie on tonight’s episode, on Channel 4 at 9pm.