Eight finalists chosen for Spanish Young Chef of the Year competition

The eight finalists are: Joshua Stringer, College of West Anglia Michelle Kleingeld, Salt Yard Restaurant Peio J. Calvo Dominguez, Iberico Restaurant William Chilila, Westminster Kingsway College Mandie Kruger, Salt Yard Restaurant Arran Pratt, Accrington and Rossendale College Luke Mayo, Westminster Kingsway College Adam Thompson, Tyne Metropolitan College The winner will be awarded a working placement in the kitchens of Akelaŕe - one of Spain's best Michelin-starred restaurants. The competition has been designed by Foods from Spain to inspire trainee chefs between the ages of 17 and 25 to explore and experiment with the variety of seasonal Spanish fresh produce and create dishes which reflect the food provenance of Spain. The competition is part of the campaign to promote Spanish produce in the UK throughout the year, including Picota cherries, persimon, strawberries and raspberries. The cook-off final will take place this month.