A NEWPORT school cook is in the running to be named Welsh School Chef of the Year 2012.

Alison Williams, who runs the kitchen at Maindee Primary School, will go head to head with two other chefs from schools in Pembrokeshire and Rhondda Cynon Taff in the competition final today.

The mother of two, who has been in the catering industry for 20 years, must cook a main course and dessert suitable for an 11-year old, spending no more than £1.50 per meal.

Mrs Williams, 39, was inspired by her pupils’ love of sausages for her menu, which includes a sausage bake with carrots, peas, mashed potato and gravy, followed by a sultana and banana muffin and a homemade banana milkshake.

The 90-minute cook-off, organised by the Local Authority Caterers Association, takes place in Pontypridd from 10am with the winner announced at 12.30pm.

Although she admits to being a bit nervous, Mrs Williams, of Bassaleg, is also excited, knowing she has the backing of her family, the school and pupils. She said: “They are fully behind me, the children keep coming up to me and wishing me luck.

I’d love to be able to say I am the best in Wales, not just for me but for the children and for the school.”