AN AYR chef and businessman has helped fuel British golf star Tommy Fleetwood to Olympic silver in Paris. 

Ryan Beattie, the founder of Fresh Fuel Ayrshire, was asked by the golfer to travel to the French capital and cook his meals throughout the tournament. 

Ryan, 40, began his culinary journey at the age of 15 when he stepped into the fast-paced world of the hospitality industry.

He thrived under the mentorship of renowned Scottish chef Billy Costley, founder of the prestigious Costley & Costley Hotel Company.

At the age of 26, Ryan embarked on a new adventure with his family, opening the much-loved Minishant Inn.

Despite the restaurant's closure in 2022, Ryan's Fresh Fuel business was thriving on the side, and it quickly gained momentum, with customers across Ayrshire.

He explained: "We were a bit unlucky with things like Covid and the rising cost of living. It was a tough decision to close because we loved the place and had great loyal customers.

"I was fortunate because I fell back on Fresh Fuel, and was able to grow that and develop our customer base.

"We now do direct sales, where people can order online, and we deliver it. We focus on nutritionally healthy meals, where you can see the calories, and it is full of clean, high protein.

Tommy Fleetwood won silver at the Olympics.Tommy Fleetwood won silver at the Olympics with a little help from Ryan Beattie. (Image: John Walton/PA Wire)

"At first it was mostly gym-goers, but now it's for everyone, including the elderly, young professionals and even kids."

Ryan reveals he was invited to cook for Tommy Fleetwood purely by chance, after being recommended by a friend. 

He explained: "I've done a few private chef gigs through my other jobs, but this one came about by chance.

"He came to The Open at Royal Troon and was looking for a chef and someone recommended me. I went and cooked for him for five days and he liked what I did.

"He invited me over to Paris to cook for him during the Olympics. We were based just outside the city. 

"It was an amazing experience, seeing his determination to win a medal. It was good to see how someone at that level operates, and how focussed he is on his nutrition.

"I knew what he wanted generally but I was able to suggest meals to him every night which was exciting. 

"I was a fan of his before I met him so I was cheering him on for the final few holes as he closed out the silver medal.

"He made me feel like a part of the team, which was incredible, and I'd certainly love to work with him again if he asked."