A cut above the rest . . .

Michael Whitfield, who works at Cusworth Butchers in Goldthorpe, near Barnsley, will be battling it out against 10 other butchers from six different countries at the International Young Butchers Competition in Germany, which takes place tomorrow and on Saturday. The 23-year-old from Castleford, who has been working at Cusworth Butchers for just over a year, said the contest was divided into six categories, with sections such as barbecue specialities, main courses, and the preparation of a stuffed roast.

He said: "It's a real honour to be chosen. Even if I don't win, I'm sure I'll come back having learned something new. I've already learned so much just through practicing. One new skill I've learned is garnishing – as a butcher I've never really had to do that before."

Peter Cusworth, owner of the butchery business, said "It is great for Michael to be taking part and to show what English butchers can do.

"He has great ability and I am sure he will do well."