A TALENTED young Bromsgrove chef is through to the next stage of a school cooking competition.

Natalie Evans, from North Bromsgrove High School in School Drive, took part in the BIG School Cake Challenge that launched in December.

For the challenge young bakers nationally were encouraged to create an original, extravagant bake within a budget of just £5, which was then judged at schools across the country.

Natalie's creation impressed judges and helped her to secure her place in the regional final, in Gloucester, held on February 6.

In the regional final she managed to overcome competition from five other students, earning her a place in the semi final and a step closer to the overall final being held next month.

Glenn Cosby from the Great British Bake Off and celebrity chef Peter Gorton are supporting the competition, and will be appearing on the judging panel for the final.

For more information about the competition visit thebigcakeshow.com.