CATERING students from across south-west Durham had their chef's hats firmly in place for a special culinary ceremony yesterday.

The students, all of whom have special needs, had just completed a catering course at Darlington College, and held a dinner for family and friends to mark the occasion.

Course coordinator Liz Smith said: "It was a tremendous occasion for all those people involved.

"They presented a two-course meal to their family, friends, and some of the lecturers, and it was very well received."

The catering students prepared, pizza with jacket potato, garlic bread and salad, followed by a strawberry sweet.

Mrs Smith said: "They were all justifiably very proud of their achievements.