UNITED KINGDOM 29th June 2010

Haruna Murayama of Japan sailed to victory with her innovative decorations and perfect coffee as she took first place in the World Latte Art Championship, held in late June at the SCAE Event at Caffè Culture in London.

The judges awarded her 360 points for her efforts in the final of the Championship, which pitted her against 31 other baristas vying for the ultimate prize.

Australia's William Priestly contributed to his country's eventual Best Nation award by coming second in the Championship, with 335 points, while Sebastian Ryberg of Sweden placed third with 310 points.

The remaining finalists were Sebastian Lösch of Germany who took fourth place, Thailand's Sineenart Anuwatanaphorn in fifth place and Claudie Donderwinkel of the Netherlands, who placed sixth.

Pictured: World Latte Art Champion Haruna Murayama creating some spectacular latte art designs (Photo by Robert Berner)