A BUTCHER working in Lower Stretton has secured a place in the Butchery WorldSkills final to become the UK's best butcher.

Jason Edwards, 25, who works at The Hollies Farm Shop, will be travelling to Birmingham to compete against five other butchers from across the country in a competition designed to test people's skills in their field.

Jason, butchery apprentice, was trained by Reaseheath College in Nantwich where one of the competition heats was held.

He said: "This is the first time I’ve entered a large competition like this.

"It’s been a good learning experience and I’m really looking forward to the final.

"Butchery is a great career for young people, particularly if you like being active and creating things with your hands."

The competition tests butchers for overall skill, innovation, creativity, presentation, work ethic, method and approach to tasks, carcass and primal utilisation, waste and safe hygienic working practice.

The butchery competition is organised by Welshpool-based training provider Cambrian Training.

Chris Jones, head of Cambrian Training’s food and drink business unit, is predicting a close final and is delighted that a record number of female butchers entered this year’s competition.

He said: "It’s great to see two talented and skilful female butchers in the final, which will hopefully raise awareness of the opportunities available within the industry and encourage other young women to follow in their footsteps and compete at the highest level in the UK."

Butchers wishing to compete to become the UK’s best butcher 2020 may register at www.worldskillsuk.org.