A TALENTED chef is feeling “excited” after being chosen out of hundreds of applicants to take on a prestigious industry challenge.

Oliver Jeffries, 24, from Colchester, is a junior sous chef at the two AA-rosette-graded restaurant Church Street Tavern in the  city centre.

Oliver, better known as Oli, has been selected out of hundreds of applicants to take part in the Craft Guild of Chefs Graduate Awards pastry heats.

The chef will face off against 36 other competitors by completing a theory exam and four-hour practical challenge on June 14, at Brooklands College in Surrey for the southern heat of the competition.

In the kitchen - chef Oliver Jeffries and a colleagueIn the kitchen - chef Oliver Jeffries and a colleague (Image: Church Street Tavern)

The awards are aimed at helping chefs under the age of 25 develop their craft and spotlight their skills.

Oli is thrilled to be selected for the first heat.

He said: “Throughout my career I have grown to absolutely love working on the pastry section, where I can be creative and develop my own unique ideas.

“It’s an honour to be chosen to be part of the Craft Guild of Chefs Graduate Award and represent my pastry work at Church Street Tavern.

Looking good - Oliver Jeffries and one of his tasty creationsLooking good - Oliver Jeffries and one of his tasty creations (Image: Church Street Tavern)

Restaurant - the Church Street TavernRestaurant - the Church Street Tavern (Image: Church Street Tavern)

“I’ve had the freedom to test my dishes and learn from a thoroughly supportive team.”

Oli first discovered a love of baking at the age of six.

His great-grandfather did a lot of baking and he enjoyed eating muffins, scones and cakes.

After food tech lessons at Colchester Academy and completing a cookery course at Colchester Institute in 2017, Oli went on to work for the Rose and Crown and other establishments.

He joined the Church Street Tavern and “really fell in love with” pastry chef work.

Concentrating - Oli finishing off a customer's orderConcentrating - Oli finishing off a customer's order (Image: Church Street Tavern)

Oli is feeling a range of emotions about this month’s challenge.

“I feel very excited," he said.

"I would be lying if I didn’t say I was nervous, I think that shows I care and want to do well in my career.”

If Oli passes this June challenge, he will be invited on a two-day mentoring trip in July ahead of the last exam which will take place in September.