BUDDING chefs faced a challenge to prepare a two-course meal for two costing no more than £6 in less than one-and-a half hours.

The students from Weaverham High School were taking part in a heat of the Young Chef competition, organised by the Rotary Club of Northwich.

Contestants were judged on the planning, preparation, appearance and texture of the meal, as well as on hygiene, safety, cleanliness and skills displayed.

The expert judges were Graham Gaskell, chef lecturer from Mid-Cheshire College, and Rotarian Frank Smith, retired catering consultant.

Seven students competed in the heat and the judges complimented them on the high standard of meals they had prepared.

Best chef and winner of the heat was Tom Curwell, with Amy Griffiths second and Lorna Battersby third.

Other heats were held at Rudheath High School and Hartford High School.