SAMPLING the taste of success as runner-up in a reality TV show left a Darlington chef wanting more.

Judges on The Chef praised Syed Shany Ahmed for his culinary skills as they searched for the best Indian chef in the region.

Mr Ahmed, who has been cooking for just two years, lost out to Milon Miah from Barnard Castle but is determined to make a comeback to win the next series.

The chef, based in the kitchens of Darlington’s Duke Bombay Cafe, said the experience had been incredible.

After wowing judges with his unusual chicken silasila dish, he said: “I am born, bred and based in Darlington and I’m hoping to help put the town on the map.

“I was never expecting to come second after just a couple of years as a chef and it was great to be told that nobody else in the North-East was doing this dish, it’s quite unique.

“I’d like to get involved in the second series and I’m going to fight to improve myself to compete all over the country.

“It’s been a real boost to my confidence.”