A COLLEGE hosted the finals of a young chef competition.

Springboard's FutureChef competition took place at Heart of Worcestershire College, helping people between 12 and 16 to learn to cook.

The programme features a four stage national competition, annually involving over 8,000 participants.

Springboard regional manager, Sophie Green, said: “Springboard’s FutureChef was developed as a result of research into young people’s ideas about the hospitality industry.

"Research revealed that young people really admire high-profile celebrity chefs, yet surprisingly few genuinely consider a career as a chef.

"Springboard’s FutureChef provides teachers and young people with a wonderful insight into the wealth of career opportunities that the hospitality sector has to offer.”

It also includes classroom resources, chef demonstrations and skills challenges, and forms a link between schools and hospitality employers.

The competition saw students from Pedmore Technology College, Bredon Hill Academy and Christopher Whitehead School go head to head demonstrating their culinary skills.

Imogen Hunter, 14, from Pedmore Technology College won the cooking challenge with a Parisian chicken with red wine sauce served with creamed potatoes and seasoned vegetables followed by berry cheesecake crunch.

Imogen said: "My main dish was inspired by something I tried in a restaurant.

"I really enjoy cooking and have practised a few times for today and I am looking forward to working with a mentor.”

She will go on to compete in the West Midlands Regional Final on Saturday February 4.

The event took place on Tuesday January 10.