AN award-winning chef is preparing to cook up a storm in Sri Lanka for this year’s Taste of Britain Curry Festival.

Syeduz Zaman Kamran, head chef of Ozmi Indian Cuisine in Winwick Road, is among just four British cooks selected to show off their skills at the event from January 23 to 28.

He was chosen by Curry Life Magazine to recreate a number of dishes that have become a hit in the UK at the five-star hotel, Colombo.

Syeduz said: “It’s a great honour to be selected to represent Great Britain at this festival. I am really looking forward to cooking for new audience especially at the Hilton Hotel Colombo, which is acknowledged as the best hotel in the city.”

The prestigious festival is being backed by industry figures like Michelin-starred chef Rupert Rowley, who has worked with the likes of Gordon Ramsey and Raymond Blanc.

He will be joining the team in Sri Lanka. James Dauris, the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and Maldives, will also be inaugurating the festival while Mark Field MP, the UK minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Office, has sent an endorsement.

He said: ““This festival illustrates the unique nature of the UK-Sri Lanka relationship and highlights the rich and diverse cultural make up of modern Britain.”

Syed Belal Ahmed, festival organiser and editor of Curry Life Magazine, added: “British food is enjoying a renaissance period after many years and curry has played a major role in helping put us back in the world kitchen.

“This festival will create the opportunity not only to showcase the best of British but also help our chefs to bring fresh ideas to their own menus by working alongside the culinary masters of Sri Lanka.

“We also hope they will get to know more about Sri Lankan cuisine.”