A haul of twelve medals, including four gold medals and a national final in Birmingham, were among the achievements of local students at a distinguished regional cooking competition.

Professional Cookery students from Cornwall College Saltash took part in The Major Series South West regional heat, held at South Devon College.

They bagged four gold medals including two best in class along with four silver and four bronze.

Former Liskeard Community College student Charlie Walters, 17, who is studying Level 3 Professional Cookery, won gold in both the hot chicken and static plated mains categories along with reaching the national finals for the second year running.

“I felt a bit more pressure going into it this year after doing so well last year,” Charlie explained.

“I practised a lot leading up to the competition. I’m quite surprised to reach the nationals for the second year running, and really proud about what I’ve achieved.”

“I work part time at the Sail Loft in Looe and it’s great to put into practice what I am learning in the classroom.”

The finals this year are in London.

Former Saltash.net student Jessica Treacy, 16, who is studying Level 2 technical certificate in food preparation and service at Cornwall College Saltash, revealed she was “really surprised to get a gold”.

“I was quite nervous on the day. Anything can go wrong so I had to really concentrate. It was a massive eye opener seeing so many students and their different ideas,” she continued.

“This competition has made me realise I can do more than I thought. I am really enjoying the course, looking to the future I am already working with college to find an appropriate apprenticeship.”

The national competition, sponsored by Craft Guild of Chefs, has four heats across the country open to junior and senior student chefs of varying skill levels, providing students with seven different classes to choose from.

Student, Chloe Spear, 17, found the competition experience “a massive confidence boost”.

“I won gold last year too so I felt extra pressure to do well this year,” she explained.

Development chef and competition organiser, Wayne Harris, thought the “passion and commitment” shown by the Cornwall College Saltash students was “shown in the results that they earned on the day”.

“These young chefs cooked with their heart and soul and you could tell that they had practised their dishes beforehand on many occasions,” Wayne continued.

Team lead for professional cookery at Cornwall College Saltash, Chris Penk, said “we are all so proud of what Chloe, Charlie and Jessica have achieved, they are fantastic results.”

There is a courses and careers advice event on Saturday, March 17 from 10am until noon for students who may be interested in cookery courses.