A FORMER care home worker has the recipe for success as he sets sail for a new career as a chef.

During lockdown Nathan McGonigal was inspired to leave behind his life as a kitchen porter.

He signed up for a professional cookery course at West College Scotland to pursue his lifelong passion.

Now the 29-year-old has just secured his first job, as a first chef with Caledonian MacBrayne ferries.

Nathan, who was encouraged to sign up by a friend, said: “As a young lad I always had a passion and interest for cooking thanks to my dad introducing me to the basics.

"I was working as a kitchen porter within a care home, but as a hard-working hands-on type of guy I wanted more.

"During lockdown my good friend gave me the nudge and encouragement I needed to apply to college and I’ve never looked back."

Soon Nathan was loving student life and felt right at home.

He added: "Every time I’m in class or the kitchen I’m right in my zone, it’s my happy place where I feel I can excel.

"I’ve been really lucky to have a lecturer in David Smith who has encouraged me from the start and who always goes the extra mile.

"He wants his students to excel and succeed, but always instilled in us that you must have that drive as well.

"My lecturer David and the whole college in general have been so supportive and accommodating."

After successfully completing his course Nathan applied for a chef post with CalMac and was successful in gaining a position on one of the Western Isles routes.

He has now been on a number of CalMac courses to boost his skills even further.

Nathan said: "I’m truly grateful for all those who have helped me get to this place.

"I'm indebted to the college for the work they have done in supporting me to this point.”