AN AUTHOR who went on a life-changing trip to China is hoping her Anglo-Indian heritage will continue to inspire her writing.

Jenny Mallin's book 'A Grandmother's Legacy' was named the 'Best in World' cookbook at the prestigious Gourmand Awards, fighting off competition from 208 countries.

As she prepares to launch a second edition of the book, the 59-year-old is determined to build on her success.

She said: "Winning the award has been the pinnacle of the last eight years of my life. I have been working non-stop to get this book out and to make it a success.

"At one stage I was not able to go to China because I had not been earning any money. When I found out I was on the shortlist, my husband Stewart said I had to go and he paid for me to fly out.

"I feel like I am on a calling. My heritage is very important to me and it is the only job I will do for the rest of my life."

The writer's parents moved to England in 1953 with a strong passion for Indian cuisine and Mallin is determined to fly the flag and ensure her heritage lives on.

"I am very ambitious and I would like to reach a stage where a copy of my book is on every bookshelf in the world.

"With the 70th anniversary of Indian independence coming up, it feels like an important time for people like me to be proud of their heritage."

Visit: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Grandmothers-Legacy-Jenny-Mallin/dp/1504945794 to buy a copy.