MEN in their 30s are becoming increasingly competitive in the kitchen, arming themselves with state-of-the-art equipment and enrolling on cookery courses in order to prove their worth, according to a new report.

But how do Warrington men compare to the findings of a national survey by Standard Life?

Charlie Walker, aged 36, who works in Birchwood, enjoys cooking more now that he has quit clubbing.

He said: "My parents both cooked so I have always been able to do it but I didn't spend too much time in the kitchen as a student. Now that I've got two young children and don't go out so much, cooking has become a bigger part of my life."

However, for Sean Sharkey, chef and owner of town centre stall Fasta Pasta, his home kitchen is still the woman's domain. He said: "I enjoy experimenting, sometimes it ends up in the bin but other times it works. My partner says I make too much mess. She is a brilliant cook so prefers to have the kitchen to herself."

Mr Sharkey, who sells homemade pasta and sauces, admits that state-of-that-art equipment is a big draw.

He added: "I like nice pots and pans and sharp knives, even though half of the equipment is just a fad that you'll never use."

But some Warrington men are still to perfect the art of cooking.

Darren Slydell, aged 34, of East Avenue, Orford said: "I live by myself and eat tinned or microwaved stuff. I'd like to cook but I'm just too lazy."

l What do you think? Send your comments to Points of View, Warrington Guardian, 138 Bridge Street, Warrington, WA1 2RU.

Alternatively, e-mail editor@guardian

grp.co.uk