A SCHOOL cook proved too hot to handle for the opposition as she made it through to the national finals of a top contest.

Justyna Rutkowska works at Birchwood CE Primary School and made her way through the regional finals of the LACA School Chef of the Year 2018 in Wythenshawe.

Impressing judges with her cluck cluck chicken stew main and her chocolate munch crunch dessert, she will now battle it out for the national title in March.

Against the clock and under the scrutiny of a panel of judges, they had to prepare four portions of a main course and a dessert suitable for serving to 11 year olds in school.

They had 90 minutes and a maximum spend of £1.30 for the cost of a single meal (one main course and dessert).

Cllr Jean Carter, Warrington Borough Council’s executive member for education, said: “We are very proud of Justyna and wish her the best of luck in the final.

“I’m hoping to get an invitation to Birchwood Primary School when it’s curry day as I believe that’s her speciality.

“Our teams are always looking for ways to improve the healthy and nutritious meals and it’s great to get this recognition against stiff competition from across the region.”

Justyna will now face the other nine regional champions from the earlier heats in the 2018 national final on March 8 in Stratford upon Avon.

In addition to the kudos of winning the national title, the 2018 champion will receive a £1000 prize and the chef of the year trophy. He or she will also be awarded a commemorative plaque, a work experience trip.

There are also cash prizes for second and third.