CURRY chefs from Middlesbrough are being urged to take part in an annual competition.

Middlesbrough Council is inviting applications from curry chefs across the town to take part in this year's competition, which will be held the week beginning June 23.

It is a chance for chefs at restaurants and takeaways to demonstrate their skills at cooking curries.

It is the sixth year the council has run the competition and the winner will go forward to a regional final.

The winner of that competition will then go on to the national final, with a first prize of £3,000.

A panel of judges will visit each restaurant or takeaway, where entrants will be required to prepare a meal of a curry and a side dish, accompanied by rice or bread.

The meal will be assessed on appearance, aroma, texture and taste. Each entrant will also be judged on their understanding and practical application of hygiene and food safety practices.

Application forms are available by calling (01642) 728049. Forms should be returned by June 10.

Last year's competition was won by Jamal Chowdury, of Jamal's, in Corporation Road, Middlesbrough.

As a first-time entrant, he won with a South Indian chicken curry dish.

Mr Chowdury said: "I think it is a great opportunity for all chefs working in Middlesbrough's restaurants and takeaways to show their ability to cook good food and demonstrate sound food hygiene standards."