Ellison's culinary skills were praised by chef Gordon Ramsay

The 21-year-old ex-Brookside actress squealed with delight as host Angus Deayton announced the winner of the public vote on Sunday evening.

As she celebrated with champagne, Ellison said: "I can't believe it, I didn't know how to boil an egg."

She was among 10 contestants who had spent two weeks being taught kitchen skills by fiery chef Gordon Ramsay.

Ellison said: "This was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life.

"But it is probably one of the best things I have ever done in my life. I have learned so much."

Ramsay said of her: "She is going to go on and become phenomenally successful.

Matt Goss (left) and James Dreyfus were gracious in defeat

"She has been a complete surprise, the best cook in the house."

Former Bros singer Matt Goss, 35, was ejected from the show on Sunday, leaving just Ellison and runner-up James Dreyfus, 35, to battle for the crown.

Goss described the experience as "an emotional rollercoaster", while Dreyfus said: "It would've been unjust if I had won - I'm an appalling cook."

The other contestants had included former government minister Edwina Currie, comic Al Murray, TV presenter Abi Titmuss, ex-Coronation Street actress Amanda Barrie, US singer Belinda Carlisle, athlete Dwain Chambers and DJ Tommy Vance.

Ramsay, who runs London's only three-star Michelin restaurant, Gordon Ramsay in Chelsea, paid tribute to the contestants.