Sponsored by ABP Newry, competitors were given 1lb of mince and 45 minutes to cook and present a meal for two. Competitors were not only tested on their cooking skills but on their cooking knowledge, and had to complete a written paper. With over 40 members participating in the competition, the heat was on to see who would come out on top.
The competition was split into over-16 and under-16 age groups, with Rosemary Gibson, from Café Chimms, Hillsborough, judging.
After much deliberation and taste-testing all the variety of meals on offer, the final results were delivered. In the under-16 category, first place went to Kelly Adams, from Killinchy YFC, with Jenny Leadley, from Annaclone and Magherally YFC, second. Frances George, from Moneyrea, came first, with Roberta Simmons, Rathfriland YFC, a close second in the over-16s' category.
The Co Down Practical Young Farmer competition also took place on the same evening, sponsored by Thompsons and Sons. The results will be given out at a later date.
Thanks are extended to ABP Newry for sponsoring the Young Hostess competition and to Thompsons and Sons for sponsoring the Practical Young Farmer competition. Their continuing support is greatly appreciated by the Co Down committee and its members.
Thanks are also extended to Dromore High School for the use of its premises; Rosemary Gibson for her taste-testing expertise, and all who helped and participated in the competitions.