THREE trainee chefs from Basingstoke College of Technology are vying for the opportunity to be named the town’s best young chef.

After the success of last year’s Master Chef competition, landlord and head chef at award-winning gastro pub, The Sun Inn, in Dummer, Gordon Stott is looking to unearth Basingstoke’s newest culinary talents.

Being one of the youngest people in the UK to take up the dual role in 2010 at the age of 20, Gordon wants to put the next generation of young chefs to the test.

Now 25-years-old, the Sun Inn chef wants to give youngsters a foot-hold into the catering industry by challenging them to cook for 30 diners while raising money for charity.

Gordon said: “Over the years we have employed a number of ex-BCoT students for various roles and we want this to continue.

“It’s important for aspiring chefs to gain experience while training and see what the industry is like so they are wellprepared.”

The three chefs will be cooking for 30 guests at the BCoT restaurant on later today, where diners will pay what they think the meal is worth, with the one getting the most money being declared as the Sun Inn Master Chef winner.

All the money collected for the meals will be donated to Ark Cancer Centre Charity, in its bid to raise £5 million for the new centre.

Trustee of the charity Merv Rees said: “I am grateful to Gordon and the team at the Sun Inn, and the participating chefs at BCoT, for supporting Ark Cancer Centre Charity through this fine dining event.

“I am sure that those attending will be treated to a marvellous dining experience, and I am confident that their show of support for the food that is served, and the charity, will be reflected in the donations they make.”

Last year’s event raised £510 for the charity, and this year Gordon is hoping to raise even more toward its target.