A CELEBRITY Birmingham chef has taken a leaf out of a classic children's story to celebrate the first decade of his prestigious restaurant.

Glynn Purnell is copying Willy Wonka from Charlie and The Chocolate Factory by issuing golden tickets for a table for two at an unforgettable night celebrating 10 years since he opened Purnell's.

The Michelin starred chef is handing out just 15 golden tickets for a champagne reception and a 10-course menu on Friday July 7, 10 years to the day since Purnell’s first opened its doors to the public.

Glynn Purnell said: "I wanted to do something fun, and growing up in the city that is home to the most well-known chocolate factory in the country, I thought I could be Birmingham’s answer to Willy Wonka.

"I wanted to ensure that whether you’re Mrs Jones living in a one-bedroomed maisonette, or whether you’re a Lord or Lady, you’ll have just as much chance of coming to eat here on the anniversary night; which is where the golden ticket idea came from.”

The celebration menu will showcase some of Glynn’s best loved, signature dishes. Since opening in July 2007, on Cornwall Street in Birmingham, Purnell’s has gone from strength to strength.

Glynn opened the restaurant following his success at Jessica’s, which was awarded Birmingham’s first coveted Michelin star back in 2005.

he was awarded the accolade for a second time, when Purnell’s earned its star in 2009.

Iconic Purnell dishes include Smoked-Haddock Milk with a Poached Egg Yolk, Cornflakes and Curry Oil, Monkfish Masala with Red Lentils, Picked Carrots and Coconut Garnish and his famous Burnt English Custard Egg Surprise which won The Great British Menu with a perfect score in 2008.

The restaurant boasts a stylish main dining area, a Living Room where diners can eat ‘Brummie Tapas’ in the lounge area, and impressive private dining facilities.

As Purnell’s success has grown, Glynn’s public profile has risen in equal measure. Now firmly established as one of the UK’s best known chefs, he makes regular television appearances on popular food programmes such as Saturday Kitchen, The Great British Food Revival and The Great British Menu.

He will also be fronting the new series of My Kitchen Rules alongside Rachel Allen, which is currently being filmed and will be broadcast on Channel 4 later this year.

To be in with a chance of winning a Golden Ticket send a stamped addressed envelope to: Mr Purnell’s Golden Ticket Prize Draw, Purnell’s Restaurant, 55 Cornwall St, Birmingham, B3 2DH.

The closing date for entries is 5pm on Thursday June 15.

The 15 winners will receive their golden tickets the week beginning Monday 19 June when the draw has been made.