A TOP local chef and an MP have visited Chaddlewood primary school pupils to inspire them with a love of food.

Peter Gorton brought South West Devon MP Gary Streeter along for the day to help him demonstrate simple and delicious dishes to pupils as part of the Food Is Fun programme.

The initiative is designed to fit into the school curriculum and helps educate children about food.

Children from Years 1, 4 and 6 had the chance to touch, smell and taste the dishes created by Mr Gorton, co-owner of the Horn Of Plenty restaurant at Gulworthy near Tavistock, and his team.

"I'm incredibly passionate about working with children and getting them enthused and excited about food" said Peter. "I've done lots of demonstrations with schools over the years and this is why I developed the Food Is Fun idea with Castles Kitchens."

Mr Streeter added: "We hear so much about children not eating healthy food and not knowing where their food comes from. Food Is Fun is the perfect way to educate our children in a fun and interactive way."

One of the themes of the cookery demonstration was Sustainable Seas, and Peter's cookery lesson focused on the food value of fish.

He showed them examples of lesser- known but delicious fish which are often overlooked in favour of more recognisable varieties, which are also more threatened by overfishing.

Headteacher Simon Mower said: "Peter is great at getting children involved with learning and there's no better way to teach children than to make them part of something."

After the session the children were given a recipe card to take home to encourage an interest in cooking at home. Reflecting the theme of the day, the recipe was for one of Peter's fish dishes.