School cook's success with pupils

Kate Nichols said she involved the pupils with meal choices

A school cook from Anglesey has been crowned the best in Wales after being nominated by pupils.

Pupils at Ysgol Caergeiliog near Holyhead highlighted how Kate Nichols involved them in menus and encouraged eating healthy food at lunchtimes.

She was presented with her award by Nora Sands, who has worked with Jamie Oliver to improve school catering.

Ms Nichols will now compete with other winners from the rest of the UK for the title of Dinner Lady of the Year.

She said her culinary success came from involving children at the school.

Ms Nichols said she just tried to make meals more interesting for the pupils and listened to their suggestions for meals.

"It's presentation, I encourage the children by asking them what they want to see on the menu and I follow through with what they like," Ms Nichols added.

"I give them a chance and then go along with it."

The competition is organised by School Link book company.