THE search is on for the best young chef in York.

The event is being held as part of the York Food and Drink festival, which returns this month for its 26th year.

Adam Wardale (pictured), General Manager of York's Middletons Hotel, and Chairman of the Hospitality Association York (HAY), says this is an amazing opportunity to showcase the great talents of junior Chefs in York.

The competition is being sponsored by HAY.

The chefs participating in the competition are local to York; some college and some professional chefs, meaning anyone up to a Sous Chef level is able to apply.

Finals for the event will be taking place on Monday September 26 in St Sampson Square in front of a live audience.

Adam said: "It's a very exciting thing for an up and coming young chef to do."

The winning chef will also receive a trophy.

Some 1200 students are expected to attend York Food Festival between Friday September 23 and Sunday October 2.

The festival is organised by creative director Michael Hjort (pictured)

During the festival, visitors can enjoy 10 days of demonstrations and hands-on participation, taste trails and wine tastings, markets and street food.

The event brings over 100 food and drink producers to showcase the best of Yorkshire produce in York city centre streets and markets.

Centred in Parliament St and St Sampson's Square with marquees and live music until 9pm, other events extend across the city, including at some of York's most iconic and historic buildings.

Organisers say the event presents a great opportunity for young Chefs and aspiring teens to delve into the world of culinary careers, with a variety of masterclasses from home baking all the way to Michelin style cuisine.

Both Ahmed Abdalla, Head Chef at The Grand's new fine dining restaurant Legacy and Marc Williams, Director of the Cookery School will be hosting demonstrations for audiences during the festival.

Adam said: "The York Food and Drink Festival is something the hotels and restaurants of the city always want to support."

"Many members of HAY are taking part in the festival, such as the Taste Trail, which also starts on Friday September 23.

"This allows people to sample the different foods on offer and to enjoy the diverse variety in York."

Hotels and restaurants will often have special deals on during the festival, with the Middleton Hotel having a high tea.

In addition, most events at the festival are free of charge, he added.

York Food and Drink Festival is still taking applicants for the Junior Chef competition.

To find out more, go to: https://yorkfoodfest.wufoo.com/forms/junior-chef-competition-york-food-festival/