An Ayrshire College student recently reached the final stages of a school cooking competition, competing for the title of ‘Scottish School Cook of the Year’.

Assistant Cook at Marr College in Troon, Veronica Lewis has been studying Professional Cookery on a day release basis at Ayrshire College.

Veronica, who was up against competitors from councils across Scotland, faced tough competition, making it through to the final stages, narrowly missing out on becoming a top three finalist.

The competition provided a chance to showcase her culinary skills and creativity, designing a nutritious two-course menu that could be adapted for large scale school catering, using Scottish produce. The salmon with noodles, followed by meringue and raspberry dessert, definitely fit the bill.

Sandra Nimmo of South Ayrshire Council said: “The standard of the competition has been fantastic. I am impressed with Veronica’s professional attitude and well-thought out menu. It’s never easy cooking under competition conditions, and reaching this stage is superb.”

Speaking about the day release course, Veronica said: “Even though I already work in a kitchen, the course has provided me with so much more knowledge, which has been invaluable for my day job.

"It was fantastic to enter the school cook competition, I really enjoyed the whole experience.”