TWO young chefs proved their worth in the kitchen after competing in a national cooking contest.

Northallerton College students Georgina Mackley and Ellie Cameron competed in the district heat of the national Rotary Young Chef competition.

The 16-year-olds, of Romanby and Osmotherley respectively, gained a chance to show off their skills in the Northern group cook-off.

They had just 75 minutes to plan, prepare, cook and present a main course and dessert from healthy ingredients costing no more than £10.

Georgina opted for a chicken curry and lime cheesecake while Ellie went for chicken and pancetta stuffed with mascarpone and mini meringues with a fruit coulis.

Although they just missed out on places in the regional final they received positive feedback for their techniques and culinary talents and were awarded certificates of commendation from Kevin Hardisty and Pat Martin, of Rotary Club Northallerton Mowbray.

Mr Hardisty said: “They were both incredibly professional and did a fantastic job. Their food was amazing and we are very proud of how they performed.”

Ellie said: “There is a lot of pressure in getting the timings right but I love cooking.”

Georgina added: “I have baked with my mum since I was very young and plan to continue with it as a hobby.”