A YOUNG chef from Darlington has progressed to the final six of a competition.

Chris Rhoney could win a scholarship to New Zealand to work alongside some of the country's top chefs for six weeks if he wins.

The Link Foundation Hospitality Award will be presented by its patron, Princess Anne.

The competition was arranged by the NZ-UK Link Foundation and received applications from budding chefs aged between 16 and 21 from across the UK.

Applicants had to impress a panel of judges by designing a three-course menu from typical New Zealand ingredients to make the last six.

Chris, who attends Darlington College of Technology, also had to explain why he wanted to go to New Zealand and be a good ambassador for UK culinary expertise.

Chris is now short-listed for a cook-off at Westminster Kingsway College, London, where he will produce his menu to be judged by a panel of experts, including New Zealand celebrity chef Peter Gordon, tutors from the college and members of the craft guild of chefs.

The award ceremony will take place at New Zealand House, London, on October 6.