PHOTO SLIDESHOW: Yorkshire Coast College cookery contest

The contest, which was organised locally by the Rotary Clubs of Scarborough and Scarborough Cavaliers, challenged students to cook a three-course meal for two people with a food cost of less than £15.

Judging their efforts was local celebrity chef James Mackenzie from the Michelin-starred Pipe and Glass Inn at South Dalton, near Beverley.

The chef, who is a former student of the college, said: “I was very impressed. There were some really inventive menus, lots of hard work and great enthusiasm.

“It’s so encouraging to see youngsters devoting time and energy to this competition, which recognises skills and inventiveness on a national stage.”

The heats featured seven entrants from both Scalby School and Yorkshire Coast College.

The winner on the day was college student Rebecca Palmer, whose menu of grilled Filey haddock starter, Wolds lamb main and roast plum dessert stood out.

She was closely followed by James Webster, whose cherry chocolate brownie was a hit with the judges.

In third place, also going forward to the next round of the competition in Harrogate, was 15 year old Morgan Grunwell from Scalby School, who showed great composure in the unfamiliar environment of the college kitchen and produced some great dishes.

“All of them were winners,” said James. “They should be very proud of their achievements.”