A MasterChef winner is encouraging amateur cooks across Scotland to help feed hungry children.

Gary Maclean, who is the executive chef at City of Glasgow College, is asking the nation to participate in the Mary's Meals Deals Challenge.

The initiative supports children in some of the world's poorest countries.

He is encouraging people to make a one-off donation or set up a regular contribution, equivalent to a £4 supermarket meal deal.

Mr Maclean prepared a chicken curry with braised rice and flatbreads, finished off with raspberry sorbet (Image: Mary's Meals UK) Mary's Meals, founded in a shed in the Scottish Highlands, currently feeds more than 2.4 million children across 17 countries including South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Lebanon.

Gary said: "We all know that a supermarket meal deal is easy and convenient, especially when life gets busy, but nothing beats a home-cooked lunch that all the family can enjoy.

"And it’s even better when it’s healthy."

To inspire others, he has created a gourmet lunch equivalent to the price of a £4 meal deal.

He prepared a chicken curry with braised rice and flatbreads, finished off with raspberry sorbet.

He said: "My chicken curry is packed with vegetables and spices that you’ll likely have in your kitchen already.

"Paired with braised rice and easy to make flatbreads, you’ll have a filling lunch that won’t break the bank.

"Plus, the money saved on a daily meal deal from the supermarket can have a life-changing impact on the lives of vulnerable children around the world."

He believes the link between food and education is powerful.

He said: "The little ones receive a daily school meal which gives them the energy to focus on their studies and gain an education that can lead to a brighter future.

"Every child should have enough to eat and the chance to learn, and by donating even as little as £4 you can help Mary’s Meals ensure that every child is given this opportunity."