A YOUNG Darlington chef, who earned an apprenticeship in a top London restaurant, returned to her old school with a treat for her teachers.

Ruth Hansom, a former student at Longfield Academy, was national runner-up in the 2012 Future Chef competition, designed to encourage the next generation of cooks.

She is now an apprentice chef at The Ritz, in London.

During her visit, Ruth served up cake for headteacher Susan Johnson and other members of staff.

She had proved an inspiration to other students at the school, including Hannah Gorman, who recently reached the semi-final of the latest Future Chef competition.