TEENAGER Georgina Lindsey is in the running to win a Cordon Bleu scholarship worth thousands of pounds.

The 19-year-old from from Christian Malford, near Chippenham, is one of just 10 candidates out of 81 entries from across the UK being considered as the winner of the once in a lifetime prize.

The former student of Sheldon School in Chippenham has been working for four years as a waitress at Sutton Benger restaurant La Flambé. She is eager to get into the kitchen and said she dreams of one day owning and running her own restaurant.

The winning candidate will study the coveted Diplôme de Cuisine, followed by a three month diploma in culinary management.

The scholarship award also includes an internship programme at the two Michelin-starred London restaurant The Square, under the guidance of chef Phil Howard.

Miss Lindsey got through to the semi finals by making a video of herself and was then interviewed by a panel of Le Cordon Bleu judges.

She said: “I haven't felt this excited since being a child.

"This scholarship is an opportunity to learn classical French cooking at Le Cordon Bleu, the best cookery school in the world - it doesn't get much better than that.

"After four years at La Flambé, my parents joke about how the restaurant has become my second home. It's true, Manuel and his family are like a second family.

"Winning Le Cordon Bleu Scholarship would be perfect for me; it would complete my training and allow me to pursue my passion.

"The final is going to be tough and there are some outstanding candidates. I will give it my best shot and show the judges I want this more than anyone else. I really believe I have enough passion to win."

The winner of the Le Cordon Bleu Scholarship Award London will be announced on July 1.

Chef Alan Swinson, culinary arts director at Le Cordon Bleu London, said: “This year we wanted to involve chefs from the regions so it’s not just London based. We are trying to engage people and provide building blocks to attract more people into the industry.”