'It's only just sinking in now' Manx bartender wins top award

21-year-old shaking up the competition in Barcelona

A Manx bartender who recently won a top industry award says he wants to help grow the bar scene on the Isle of Man.

Twenty-one-year-old Drew Fleming, General Manager of Kiki Lounge in Douglas, came first out of more than 700 applicants in the 50 Best Bars 'Blend Scholarship' competition.

His self-made cocktail called 'Web of Skies', made up of all-Manx ingredients - including seaweed, rum and honey - was chosen as the best at an awards ceremony in Barcelona this week.

As winner, Drew will now be invited to take part in two internships at the Connaught Bar in London and Katana Kitten in New York.

His prize also includes a trip to Madrid - all flights paid for by the competition organisers and living expenses covered.

'Where will I be in five years time? Here, and hopefully we can get Kiki's on the Top 50 list as well.'

Speaking to Manx Radio, Drew's been reflecting on the past six months: