A female bartender is causing a stir and shaking up the industry with her flair routine.

Jemma Ridley blazed a trail in the TGI Friday’s UK bartender championships at the end of September, being the only female to reach the regional finals.

The 26-year-old battled against 14 men but narrowly lost out on one of the two places in the national final.

She said: “The males in the competition have been very encouraging, but it’s still pretty intimidating being the only girl.

“Some of the stuff they can do is amazing. I was in total awe. It was such a good learning experience and has inspired me to get better for next year.”

Jemma started her job at T.G.I. Friday’s Croydon over a year ago but only began spinning spirits and juggling glasses after six months.

She said: “It’s so fun. I get such a buzz and when people are watching it drives me to try harder and the adrenaline kicks in so I just want to impress them more.

“It’s cool being the only girl but I really want to see more girls involved. I get so much support from my Friday’s family as they have been great.

“I practice as much as I can at work. I love the job, so I try to be there as much as possible and when I’m not making drinks I’m demonstrating to people.”

She believes her knack for the art is down to the support and encouragement she receives from her colleagues.

She said: “From day one when I joined Friday’s I felt so involved and welcomed. The person training me was very reassuring and devoted to bringing out the best in me.

“It really makes a difference when people believe in you and encourage you.”

Jemma couldn’t show off her flairing skills for a short while as the restaurant was shut due to the huge fire in Purley Way at the beginning of the month.

But now she is back and ready to wow more customers with her flicks and tricks behind the bar.