THE students excelled at the Burnham-on-Sea Rotary Club’s Young Chef competition held at The King Alfred School Academy, in Highbridge.

The youngsters were set the challenge of preparing and cooking a three-course meal in two hours on a budget of £22.

The judges praised the young chefs for the “exceptionally high” standard of their finished meals and the variety of their dishes.

Poppy McKay powered through to the district final in February.

She wowed with an impressive menu that included a starter of smoked mackerel pate with home-made bread, followed by a main course of pan fried duck with spiced orange and cranberry plus parsnip puree, creamed cabbage, chestnuts and fondant potatoes, followed by a dessert of triple chocolate surprise.

Joint runners-up included Hazel Lynham, Jocelyn Lacey and Sonnie Macbeth.

The youngsters were awarded cash prizes by Burnham-on-Sea Rotary Club.

Co-judge and principal Dan Milford said: “All the students have showed such brilliant effort with their dishes – and the presentation and taste were superb.

"Some dishes were really five star Michelin standard.”

Fellow judge Carol Charmers said: “The standard of dishes we saw was the highest for some time – each of the students showed individual flare with some great end results.”

Burnham-on-Sea Rotary Club president David Stickles said: “The Rotary Club has supported this event for many years – it helps to encourage cooking skills, promotes healthy eating, budgeting, and boosts confidence.”