PUPILS had the chance to showcase their culinary skills as the Junior Masterchef competition returned to Bury for 2018.

Now in its 18th year, the Rotary Club of Tottington and Bury West's inter-school contest saw pupils from across the borough cook up a storm at Bury College.

It was a team from The Derby High School who won first place with their tasty grilled spicy chicken tikka main accompanied by a mild green chutney.

Pupils Zainab Azam and Afreen Kayani impressed judges with their passion and attention to detail.

Afreen said: "I am really happy to have won. I developed my teamwork skills and my confidence."

Dawn Brigham, had of food studies at The Derby High School said: "I am delighted at how well our pupils did in this competition.

"The pupils will be required to do something similar to this for their food exams so it is great practice."

In second place were Finlay Hughes and Marshall Longworth from Castlebrook High School while Fatima Hassan and Liam Crowther from The Derby High School claimed third place.

Pat Wall, chairman of community and vocational committee of the Rotary Club, said: "I look forward to this competition every year, and seeing the high quality dishes the pupils serve up.

"The Rotary Club is very much here to support the local community and engage with the community.

"Bury College are wonderful partners to work alongside and are always really helpful."

Six teams of two went against the clock to create a main meal and dessert with fresh and local produce in two hours.

The dishes were sampled by a panel of judges made up of industry experts.

The award for the best dessert went to Katie Hargreaves and Evie Skinner from Castlebrook High School.

Teams from The Derby High School, Elms Bank Specialist Arts College and Castlebrook High School took part.

The Mayor of Bury, Councillor Jane Black, handed each participant a certificate for their hard work.

She said: "I really enjoyed the event. It was lovely to see the energy, enthusiasm and hard work from all the young people.

"Every participant was a winner and I hope everyone left feeling inspired."

James Donnelly, assistant curriculum manager for catering at Bury College added: "The Junior Masterchef 2018 was a very good event. The standard was as high as ever and everyone entered competitively."