A COMPETITION giving veterans a chance to test their culinary skills is returning for the second year.

Four veterans are taking part - with each being trained at a different top regional restaurant to make a game dish in preparation for the cook-off on Wednesday, November 16 at Swinton Park Cookery School, Masham.

This year, Rockliffe Hall, near Darlington, is taking part with veteran Alex Krol - who is supported by Help for Heroes-run Phoenix House recovery centre at Catterick Garrison. He is being trained by head chef Richard Allen.

The winner will receive a free week’s training at the Swinton Park Cookery School.

The competition, introduced to inspire veterans with a passion for food, also aims to provide motivation to help facilitate a smooth transition to civilian life for those whose military career has ended through wounding, injury or sickness.

The first competition was won by Ted Granger from Brompton-on-Swale, near Richmond, in 2014.

He said: “I did wonder whether I should be putting myself in a situation where a trigger may initiate panic or anxiety or anger but with support from staff at Phoenix House, I decided to push my boundaries.

The PTSD was locked away in a box and chained up for the competition. If it wasn’t for Help for Heroes, I would have completely missed this opportunity to learn something new, have fun and meet new people, while actually believing in myself that winning was possible which, indeed, proved to be true.”

This year’s entrant Mr Krol was paralysed from the chest down in a 2004 motorbike accident which ended his military career with the Royal Marines.

For two years afterwards, he struggled with the idea of being in a wheelchair but, after realising he was still fit, he took every opportunity to try new activities.

As a result, he has represented his country at the highest level as a member of the Armed Forces Para SnowsportsTeam; has gained his private pilot’s licence and is involved with disabled flying charity called Aerobility.

He also won a gold medal playing tennis doubles at the Invictus Games in Orlando.

“I am good at timings but I am definitely not a cook,"he said: "I hope to learn about gravy and sauces – that sort of detail that makes a meal so much more appetising.

“The chefs that I met on our training day were so passionate about what they do and if just a little of that rubs off on me, I will be thrilled… and obviously I will give it a good go in the hope of winning.”