CELEBRITY chef Jamie Oliver went back to his roots to visit North-East catering students yesterday.

The television star, who began his career as a City and Guilds student in London, spoke to the next generation of chefs at the City of Sunderland College's Hylton Centre.

He attributes some of his success to the knowledge and experience he gained at Westminster College, so wanted to give something back to North-East students hoping to follow in his footsteps.

About 40 students and their lecturers from colleges throughout the region attended a question and answer session with the celebrity, who told them to be "passionate" about food.

Student Vicky Richardson, 17, from Washington, near Sunderland, said: "He is one of my all-time heroes and one of the reasons I came into catering.

"He was inspirational and I will certainly be following his advice."

Mr Oliver is involved in setting up Fifteen, a restaurant in London's East End which aims to provide the practical side of City and Guilds training, with tutors working alongside students.

All profits from the restaurant will support additional training.

Following the Sunderland visit, Mr Oliver travelled to the MetroCentre where he signed copies of his new book, Jamie's Kitchen, at Waterstones.