A PROMISING trainee is in line to win the prestigious title of Future Chef 2017.

Malachy Pharncote-Rowe is being mentored by Rhian Cradock, chef at The Feather’s Inn in Heddon-on-the-Wall.

And Malachy is set to compete in the North East Culinary Trade Association competition.

He will take part in two days of live culinary competition to showcase his skills in the hope of being named Future Chef 2017.

The young chef will prepare a rabbit dish demonstrating knife skills in 60 minutes.

He will also prepare one main course for two covers, along with students from eight colleges in a final live competition on Wednesday, April 5.

Malachy, who studies at Gateshead College, said: “I am very proud to have got this far and have been well supported by Rhian and his team. It’s thanks to them I have developed a real passion for cooking.”

The North East Culinary & Trade Association aims to provide skills and opportunities to chefs and catering professionals in the North of England.

Rhian said: “Malachy shows great potential in the kitchen and this is a great opportunity for him as he starts his culinary adventure. He shows a great deal of promise for the future.”