As part of the Taste Of Diss food festival, July 12-19, one lucky winner of a cookery competition will be invited to work for the day at the Lanesborough Hotel with top chef Paul Gaylor.

Michelin-starred chef Freddie Jones, who runs Fredricks Fine Foods in Diss, has agreed to be the number one judge for the competition, which will be held at the Corn Hall on July 19.

There will be three levels of entry – category one is for professional chefs, category two for over 16s and category three for under 16s.

"I know only too well there are great professional chefs cooking in restaurants in the area and I want to know who can make the best dish – that special meal," said Mr Jones.

"It's not only professionals though. I know there are great amateur cooks/chefs out there because many come and talk to me in my shop."

For the first category, Mr Jones will be inviting the top chefs from restaurants across the area to enter their signature dish, which will go before an independent panel of judges.

Gold, silver and bronze medals will then be awarded to the top three dishes.

The winner of category two – over 16s – will have their dish on the menu at the Lanesborough Hotel for a day and on sale at Fredricks Fine Foods for a week.

In the third category – for the under 16s – winners will receive signed copies of the latest Gordon Ramsey and Phil Vickery cookery books and a Fredericks Fine Foods apron.

"I think it is important children learn how to cook good food from an early age and I look forward to tasting some creative cooking from the kids in the area," said Mr Jones.

All entrants will receive a commemorative Taste Of Diss plate.

To enter any of the categories drop off/send your name address and age category to Fredericks Fine Foods, Norfolk House Yard, Diss, IP22 4LB or email suzannekayne@yahoo.co.uk All entries must be received by June 27.

There will be plenty of other activities on offer at the Corn Hall on July 19, including children's workshops on making lavender pockets and cooking activities.

Local producers will have stalls selling everything from pickles to pork and cheese to chocolate and there will be an exhibit of World War food called Digging For Victory.

Anyone who would like a stall at the Corn Hall should call Suzanne Kayne, 01379 641388.