Award-winning Yorkshire coffee maker hopes he can take on world

Mr Lea, who works at Costa Coffee, on Albion Place, in Leeds city centre, has been named best coffee maker in Yorkshire by the firm, but on Friday he will compete against other talent from across the country and if victorious could face international competition to find the best in the world.

The 29-year-old has invented a Hot Shot Mocha creation which consists of five drinkable layers made from espresso, pouring cream, hot chocolate froth and infused coffee cream, which is then served in a shot glass.

Mr Desmond said: "I had originally thought that the drink would have four layers but I discovered accidentally that the crema (oily espresso foam) and cream separates to take this to that extra level."

David Padbury, Yorkshire area manager for Costa Coffee

parent company Whitbread, said: "Desmond has worked really hard for this and we are very proud that he has been named Costa Barista (coffee maker) of the Year 2010 Yorkshire."

If he wins on Friday he will compete against nine other finalists, including Costa baristas from India and the Middle East, China and Europe, to win a holiday for two.