A talented teenager from Kidderminster has won the prestigious Student Chef of the Year competition.

Lauren Smith, aged 18, was crowned the winner by the British Culinary Federation at the event which took place at University College Birmingham (UCB) on Wednesday, November 22.

The student, who studies Level 3 Professional Cookery at UCB, triumphed in the gruelling contest which saw finalists produce a three-course menu for two in just two hours.

For her achievements, Ms Smith received the John Peart Memorial Trophy, gold medal, certificate, £150 and a set of chef knives courtesy of Contacto.

Kidderminster Shuttle: The student chef had to cook a three-course meal for two in just two hours The student chef had to cook a three-course meal for two in just two hours (Image: British Culinary Federation)

Senior lecturer at UCB, Martin Hodgetts, said: “It has been a pleasure mentoring Lauren for the competition. She has demonstrated her dedication and skills throughout practicing and on the day.

“I am extremely proud of her achievement. It is well deserved and hopefully one of many successes.”

The teenager, who attended King Charles School and now works as a Commis Chef at Bistro Pierre, has also shown dedication to her culinary career by getting up at 5.30am every day to make it to Birmingham on time for her classes.

She hopes her commitment will pay off as she dreams of becoming a Head Chef one day and working in a Michelin star restaurant.

Kidderminster Shuttle: The teenager dreams of becoming a Head Chef and working in a Michelin star restaurant The teenager dreams of becoming a Head Chef and working in a Michelin star restaurant (Image: British Culinary Federation)

Ms Smith’s family said: “We are extremely proud, and it is absolutely amazing to see Lauren achieving this award and her commitment to her passion.

“We want to thank everyone that has supported Lauren on her journey from her time at school to all the team at UCB, Bistro Pierre and to Tina at AJ’s Kidderminster, where Lauren started her first job.”

On social media, the team at Bistro Pierre, added: “Thank you to Lauren for all her commitment and hard work, we love having you and we are honoured to be part of your journey and watching you grow.”