THE fight to be named Swindon's best curry house has begun.

For the third year running Swindon Borough Council is encouraging Indian restaurants in the town to enter the National Curry Chef Competition.

The contest offers entrants the chance to show off their culinary skills while acknowledging their high levels of food hygiene awareness and training.

Entry forms must be returned by Friday, May 23.

Unannounced hygiene inspections will take place at the establishments which have entered by the end of June.

If the results of an inspection are satisfactory, a judging team will visit the restaurant to taste one curry dish and one bread or rice dish as well as a complimentary side dish.

The four establishments with the highest combined marks will go forward for the final local cook-off, to be held at Swindon College in June.

The National Final will be held in Birmingham on November 28 and the winning restaurant will receive a £3, 000 cash prize.

For an entry form, contact Eunice Salmon from the council's environmental services food team on Swindon 466276.