A chef from Corringham has beat thousands of contestants from 90 different countries to the semi-finals of a cooking competition.

Lee-James Hickey, 25, has made it to this impressive stage after being whittled down to 10 contestants taking part in the S.Pellegrino Young Chef 2018 UK & Ireland competition.

Upon completing a history degree at the University of Grenwich, Lee-James Hickey decided to continue his love of learning with a NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery.

Lee-James developed his culinary experience as Assistant Chef at St Luke’s Hospice and more recently he has enjoyed refining his expertise as Commis Chef at the Royal Air Force Club.

Lee-James’ Young Chef 2018 signature dish consists of curried British Cod, wild boar Bonbons with spiced Purple Corn.