BBC search is launched to find 'chop idol'

THE BBC today launched a contest to find Britain's top young butcher. BBC Three revealed its new Pop Idol-style contest will be the first in a series of shows aimed at celebrating the country's best young workers.

Speaking at the launch of a new season of programmes, channel controller Danny Cohen said: "It's a bit like Butcher Idol, I suppose. There's a lot of things out there like X Factor and dancing contests which are all wonderful shows.

"But what about the vast amount of young people who are very talented, have great technical expertise but are unsung heroes and do not get the limelight?"

Mr Cohen said that the Young Butcher of the Year 2009 would be followed by a hunt for the best young hairdresser and young chef. He added: "We will start with a great number of butchers and whittle them down through a series of challenges. We'll do the same with chefs, hairdressers and possibly mechanics.

"Many young people can often do extraordinary, jaw-dropping things."

Mr Cohen said that they had yet to appoint a panel of judges for the show.