YOUNG cooks are hoping they can stand the heat in a school competition.
Pupils at Teesside High School in Eaglescliffe , near Stockton, are taking part in a Junior Masterchef competition as part of the school's extra-curricular activities.
The annual house competition at the private school began this week.
The first heat was won by Cecilia Neave, from Northallerton , who clinched it with her tomato and basil omelette.
Technology subject leader Sue Jackson said: "Competition is always fierce and the children love coming into the food room and battling it out against one another. We really do have some budding chefs here."
Last year's winner, Liam Casey, of year eight, will defend his title.
Pupils from the age of nine are taking part in the heats. The grand final of the contest takes place at the school's open day on Saturday, September 29.
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