A chef who has appeared on television competitions judged a multi-cultural cooking competition yesterday.

Great British Bake Off finalist Richard Burr visited Deansbrook Primary School, in Hale Drive, Edgware.

Eight children were asked to cook a dish from any part of the world as part of a competition, before presenting it using the language spoken where the dish originated.

Mr Burr gave first prize to pupil Richelle Anokyethe for her Ghanaian spiced rice plantain.

Richelle said she marinated the plantain with ginger, salt, garlic and chilli the night before, before frying it in a pan.

She said: “I’m really proud of myself, and happy that I entered. I enjoy the different flavours in other cultures' foods.”

Speaking about why he picked Richelle to win, Mr Burr said: “For a child, she had such a sophisticated set of spices.”

Modern languages co-ordinator Caroline Goodman said: “I hope that by witnessing what other children have achieved, others will be inspired to participate next year, and celebrate their language and cooking traditions.”