A chef from Sevenoaks has been voted one of the best curry chefs in the UK.

Chef Khalis Rahman, who is the executive chef at the Banana Leaf Indian Cuising in Sevenoaks, was one of 33 to receive official recognition for their contribution to an industry worth more than £4.2 billion a year.

Guests at the event held in the Lancaster Hotel in London included employment minister Esther McVey MP and former Secretary of State for Health, Frank Dobson.

Chef said: “To win this title is the greatest vote of confidence I could wish for, not just for myself but for my team who work so hard to make things happen at the BananaLeaf.

“The award will inspire us to keep improving and I’d also like to thank all our customers for their help putting us on the map.”

Employment minister, Esther McVey said: “Small businesses are the lifeblood of the economy and it was great to celebrate the success of so many of those who are experts in their field at the curry life magazine awards.

"The government is committed to supporting businesses that want to grow and expand. Congratulations to the deserving winners.”

MP Keith Vaz, who is the Chairman of the Home Affairs Select Committee paid tribute to the organisers, Curry Life.

Syed Belal Ahmed, Editor of Curry Life Magazine, said: “It was a fantastic evening and a great way to recognise and celebrate the skills and talents of our Curry Industry. Events like this, illustrates the strength of our love as a nation for Curry. I would like tocongratulate much deserving winners of this year’s Curry Life Chef Awards.”