A WORCESTERSHIRE home cook said she is privileged to star on Jamie Oliver's new Channel 4 television show.

Suki Pantal, from Malvern, will appear on The Great Cookbook Challenge which starts tonight (Monday).

Television chef and restaurateur Jamie Oliver, 46, will lead a search for the next big name in cookbook writing with Ms Pantal's episode airing on Monday, February 7.

The seven-part series will feature home cooks, social media influencers and street food vendors competing for a book deal with Michael Joseph at Penguin Random House.

The joint production between Jamie Oliver Productions and Plum Pictures will see would-be authors try to convince Oliver, publishers and expert judges their book concept is a best-seller.

Indian home cook Suki runs Suki's Curries and Spices which offers virtual cook-alongs, deliveries and pop-up kitchens.

She wrote on Instagram: "I have the privilege to be a contestant on The Great Cookbook Challenge Jamie Oliver @jamieoliver that's starts on 31st January, Monday at 8pm @channel4.

"Seldom have I felt such pride and elation to be part of something extraordinary.

"Will tell you more on my episode in the coming days!!!

"Watch this space!"

Suki has gained over 13,000 followers on her Instagram page where she shares her recipes.

Oliver, who has developed 25 cookbooks, will mentor the contestants and help develop their skills and passion for food.

The 46-year-old said: “I have been crafting cookbooks for over 20 years and I know the dedication, skill and intuition it takes to create recipes people want to buy and try at home.

“Breaking into publishing is incredibly difficult – an impossible dream for so many amazing cooks out there – so I am just so excited to get out there and discover incredible new talent, new perspectives and new approaches to cooking and food.

“We know the talent is out there and I’m thrilled to be able to help them fulfil their potential.”

 

The contest will begin with the aspiring authors pitching their cookbook ideas and signature dishes.

They will then be whittled down by the panel of judges and the remaining contestants will hone their concepts and cook further dishes before three finalists deliver their final pitches and attempt to “bring their books to life” for the judges.

The Great Cookbook Challenge with Jamie Oliver will be starts on Channel 4 tonight (Monday) at 8pm.