BETH Benyon from St Josephs School, Launceston was highly commended in joint third place at 'Red Tractor beef and lamb Mmmake it with Mince Challenge 2011' South West regional heats held on Tuesday, November 15.

The competition saw budding young chefs from the local area go head-to-head for the chance to be named regional winner. Contestants were judged for their recipe development and culinary skills as part of this prestigious cooking contest.

Hundreds of entries were received for this year's competition, and 47 youngsters from across the country were selected to represent their region at six cook-off events judged by James.

During the tense South West heat each student had just one hour to prepare, cook and plate-up their own original recipe featuring beef or lamb mince.

Beth was commended for her recipe, 'Moussaka stuffed choux buns on a bed of spinach with lemon glazed carrots', having competed against seven other finalists. Points were scored for originality, nutrition and presentation.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.