BUDDING young chefs have been battling it out in the kitchen to be crowned a top young cook. Seven students, aged 15 and 16, from Kimbolton School were asked to prepare a two-course healthy meal for two people on a budget of just £10. The competition, org

BUDDING young chefs have been battling it out in the kitchen to be crowned a top young cook.

Seven students, aged 15 and 16, from Kimbolton School were asked to prepare a two-course healthy meal for two people on a budget of just £10.

The competition, organised by the Rotary Club, was judged by two chefs from the New Sun Inn in Kimbolton, Stephen Rogers and Edward Strand.

They gave first place to Mary Hodgson-Jones, second place to Claire Tomberg and third to Guy Newsom. The chefs all received WH Smith gift vouchers as prizes.

Mary's winning dish was oatmeal covered mackerel with a beetroot relish, and pecan shortbread with crème fraiche and raspberry coulis.

A range of mouth-watering dishes were also produced, including golden monkfish curry and an orange and rosemary crusted rack of lamb.

Mary will now put her culinary skills to the test at the district final of the competition being held at Hinchingbrooke School, Huntingdon, on February 2. The winner will then go on to London where they will compete for the title of Rotary Club 'Young Chef of the Year' and the prize of a trip to Italy.