LUDLOW is renowned for its restaurants but its latest gives local talent a taste of what top chefs can do.

Two of those top chefs were among the first served in Mortimer’s at Ludlow College.

Chris Bradley from Mr Underhills and Will Holland of Le Bécasse also toured the kitchens to chat to students and staff.

Mortimer’s is now the heart of the college’s new professional catering course, not only building on Ludlow’s status as a gastronomic destination but ensuring local talent gets a shot at keeping that status alive.

The restaurant is at the heart of a new professional catering course at the college.

It will be open to the public and will give trainee chefs and restaurant staff hands-on experience.

Opening day had the Mortimer’s team serving to guests including Mr Bradley and Mr Holland.

The venture, said Mr Bradley, was “important and very appropriate” with Ludlow now so closely associated with good food and fine dining.

Will Holland said nothing beat the chance for students to cook for and serve real customers is a real restaurant environment.

Shropshire Council added funding to get the kitchen built under the market towns regeneration scheme.

There are currently 16 students studying catering and hospitality at the college.