A local pub chef came narrowly close to winning a Masterchef-style cook-off under the watchful gaze of some of London’s culinary elite.

Matt Long, of the Raglan Arms, Llandenny battled against some of the most promising chefs in the country, placing as a top-four finalist at the inaugural Parliamentary Young Pub Chef of the Year Award.

Matt, head chef at the well-regarded eaterie, put his culinary mettle to the heat last January, after a nomination by local MP David Davies to represent the constituency.

His efforts earned a coveted Certificate of Commendation, which was presented to him last week.

The heated competition had Matt cooking up four dishes, with limited ingredients, under the unforgiving scrutiny of Saturday Kitchen’s Paul Merrett.

Matt, 28, is focused on sharpening his skills, taking inspiration from celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, who was at Abergavenny Food Festival last year.

“This nomination provided the opportunity to represent the Raglan Arms in this prestigious award.

“To be selected as a finalist in the cook-off is a recognition of what I am striving to achieve, in the way of a very high standard and quality of food served at the Raglan Arms.

“The certificate of commendation is marvellous for the place and its young staff working in the kitchen and front of house. It is good to see the Raglan Arms get the recognition it deserves,” he said.