A YOUNG chef is putting her faith in her culinary talents in a bid to win an national oriental cooking competition.

Sara Lang-Harding from Widnes is a chef at Dine Contract Catering, Warrington, and has been selected as a national finalist in the Wing Yip Young Chef of the Year competition.

The 18-year-old will compete against 14 trainee chefs from across the UK to take home the coveted title.

Finalists will take part in a full day of intense cooking to create a two-course oriental-inspired menu to be judged by a panel of taste experts.

The judges include president of the British Culinary Federation, Peter Griffiths MBE, Michelin-starred chef, Glynn Purnell and MasterChef finalist, Larkin Cen.

A lucky winner will receive a £750 cash prize, a commemorative plaque, and the chance to work with Larkin Cen at his Bristol restaurant, Woky Ko.

Judge, Peter Griffiths MBE, said: "I’m really looking forward to returning as a judge for Young Chef 2019.

"We have a great line up of unique dishes to try and it will be great to see these come to life in the kitchen.

"This year’s competition will present a fresh new challenge for contestants, as they have to create a starter themed around street food, so I’m looking forward to seeing how they fare. The heat is on!"

Wing Yip director Brian Yip said: "The Young Chef competition is now in its seventh year and is something which is very close to our hearts – we’re extremely passionate about championing aspiring young chefs from all over the country, and the competition offers an amazing platform for anyone who’s passionate about cooking, whether that’s oriental or any other cuisine.

"We wish everybody competing the very best of luck."

The Wing Yip Young Chef of the Year 2019 final and live cook-off takes place on Thursday, April 4 at University College Birmingham.