A Young MasterChef contestant from Swindon is proud to represent his hometown in the latest season of the hit BBC show.

Lewis Gibson was born in the town and has lived in Penhill with his family for most of his life, harbouring his passion for cookery.

This has led to him starring in the new season of BBC television show Young MasterChef which commenced on Monday, January 8.

The young chef is hoping to put Penhill on the map during his time on the show and is proud to represent his roots on national TV.

Swindon Advertiser: Lewis starred on Monday night's show.Lewis starred on Monday night's show. (Image: BBC)

“It’s Penhill in Swindon that I’d call home as I’ve lived there for years,” said Lewis.

“Each time I come back to see my family or have a few pints with my mates in The Leap, it’s like coming back to my roots.”

“I remember the moment, I was about to go for dinner with my mates and I saw on my social media that applications were now open.

“I didn’t know I was on that level! But I thought if I could get myself on this stage, rep my food, rep my people, and maybe change people’s perceptions of autistic people – it’d be rude not to.

“And now we’re here. Penhill on the telly.”

Swindon Advertiser: Lewis has made a variety of plates on Young MasterChef so far.Lewis has made a variety of plates on Young MasterChef so far. (Image: BBC)

The 22-year-old is autistic and believes his outlook, as a result, will help bring something different to this year’s competition.

“I feel like I’ve got a very different way of looking at the world, and food, to most people,” he said.

“Growing up, this wasn’t always helpful but now that I’m older I’ve kind of grown into it.

“I’m rarely 100 per cent happy with anything I put out so I think this almost-insane dedication to putting out perfect dishes will help me massively.”

The MasterChef kitchen is posing a new challenge to Luke but he feels well equipped to deal with the demands.

Swindon Advertiser: Swindonian Lewis is enjoying the television experience.Swindonian Lewis is enjoying the television experience. (Image: BBC)

“Cooking in the MasterChef kitchen is crazy, and I mean that in a good way,” said Luke.

“The setup is proper, the competition is strong, and the pressure is on.

“This is the biggest stage in the country and I’m out here doing what I love.

“Everyone here is great and when we’re not in the kitchen we’re having a laugh but we’re all so switched on about food and learning about everyone’s cooking style is amazing.”

You can next catch Lewis in action on Monday, January 15, on BBC Three at 8pm.