A TEENAGER’S skill in the kitchen has won her the top prize in a school cooking contest.

Caitlin Whitaker created a tasty grilled seabass with herby risotto, roasted tomatoes and pesto to win the Masterchef-style contest held at Durham High School for Girls.

The 14-year-old followed up with a traditional sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and homemade custard for dessert.

The Year Nine student won the top prize of a voucher to spend on cookery equipment and an apron signed by BBC Masterchef judges John Torrode and Greg Wallace.

Pupils fought their way through three rounds to reach the final of the contest, which was open to all girls in the senior school.

In the last round they were given just one hour and 15 minutes to create a two-course meal, either starter and main or main and dessert.

Their creations were then judged by a panel, including the school headmistress and a chef from Ramside Hall Hotel.