The Guild of Food Writers invites entries for its CookIt! Competition

This year food adventurer and Gastronuts presenter Stefan Gates is challenging young cooks to 'Create a dream meal for you and your friends'. Gates is heading the panel of judges for the competition, which is open to children who were aged from 10 to 14 on Monday 31 August 2009. The challenge for children taking part in this year's competition is to plan a two-course meal designed to delight their friends. From all these meals, six finalists will be chosen to come to London to prepare their meals for a panel of judges. Gates, who is a member of the Guild, said: "I'm thrilled to be part of CookIt! this year. I love making food that's fun, interactive and surprising. Mealtimes should be adventurous and the Guild of Food Writers' CookIt! competition is a fantastic way to get children to explore ingredients and to get creative with their food. I cannot wait to see what the children cook up for this year's competition!" The closing date for entries is Friday 30 April 2010.