BUDDING chefs learned to cook up a storm when they were special guests at Jamie Oliver's Italian Restaurant in London.

Pupils from Clacton's Cann Hall Primary were shown the ropes at Jamie's new cookery school by head chef Thom Walker as they learned how to make pasta.

They were invited down to Shepherd's Bush by cookery school manager Frankie Edwards, who hails from Little Clacton and went to Tendring Technology College.

About 150 wannabe chefs had taken part in a healthy meal competition before 16 were chosen for the trip.

The excited youngsters all jumped on a train to the capital, paid for by the Friends of Cann Hall.

Headteacher Sarah Crookes said: "There were children from reception right up to year six.

"They had a lesson on how to make pea and ricotta ravioli from scratch and then ate it in the restaurant.

"Jamie wasn't there because he was in Brazil so they were a little bit disappointed, but Thom was a top chef at Barbecoa, near St Paul's Cathedral, and has worked with Jamie for a long time – and the food was delicious."

The visit was part of Jamie’s Food Revolution project.

Six-year-old Eleanor Filby was thrilled to be chosen.

"I was so excited to travel to London on the train and learn to cook," she said.

Jake Smith, aged eight, said: "It made me want to cook more at home."

The pint-sized chefs thanked Thom for a "magical" day.

Mrs Crookes added: "They had a great time. It was just the most incredible experience for our children.

"It was the first time some had been to London and some hadn't been on a train before. They certainly hadn't been to a top restaurant like that before.

"It was such a special day and an amazing experience."