A YOUNG chef from Carno has been awarded the runner up prize in the Junior Chef of Wales final.

James Corbett, 20, commis chef at Llangoed Hotel, Llyswen, was beaten by Ben Mitchell from The Grove, Narberth after a closely contested final on the first day of the Welsh International Culinary Championships at Coleg Llandrillo, Rhos-on-Sea, on Monday.

James, who lives in Carno, served up a starter of steamed cod fillet flakes, burnt leek, celeriac and chicory noisette, a main course of venison loin with cauliflower, barley, Alsace cabbage and chestnut, and a dessert of rhubarb and apple crumble compote, ginger and white chocolate.

Chairman of the judges, Culinary Association of Wales secretary John Retallick, praised all four finalists for the standard of their cooking.

He said: “We need good, dedicated people in this industry, which can give you so much satisfaction and opportunities, but you have to work hard at the beginning.”

Demi chef de partie Ben, 19, will now qualify for the UK semi-finals of the National Junior Chef of the Year contest, spend a week with head chef Gareth Ward at the Michelin starred Ynyshir Hall, and receive a set of knives from Dick Knives.

Talented chefs from Culinary Team Wales took on rivals England and Scotland in the Battle of the Dragon contest in the other events.

Each team had to cook a three-course menu for 85 diners, with Wales leading off on Tuesday, followed by England on Wednesday and Scotland on Thursday.

Judges were due to announce the Battle for the Dragon winners at the WICC Awards dinner at Llandudno Bay Hotel on Thursday night.

The competitions ended last Thursday afternoon with the National Chef of Wales final.