Launch of Young Chef Young Waiter 2003

The search is on for this year's Young Chef and Young Waiter. Professional chefs and waiters aged 25 and under and working full-time in the hospitality industry are invited to take part in this prestigious competition. The winners each receive £2,000 and the opportunity to visit Rioja in Spain, a region known for its fine wines.

Organised by the Restaurant Association, the competition aims to promote the skills of youths in all sectors of the industry. Hotels and contract caterers, as well as restaurants, are encouraged to take part.

Sixteen chefs and waiters will be chosen to go through to the regional finals, which takes place on 13 October at Westminster College in London. The awards ceremony will be in the evening of the same day and takes place at the Park Lane Hotel in London.

The two runners-up will receive £1,000 and a weekend break for two at the Pennyhill Park Hotel and Country Club in Bagshot, Surrey.

The closing date for entries is 31 July. Call 020 7404 7744 or visit www.ycyw.co.uk for an entry form.