Renowned Keighley curry chefs are hoping to cook up a storm as Bradford bids to retain its Curry Capital title for the third year running.

Among the restaurants representing the district is Keighley’s Shimla Spice, whose head chef, Nazakat Ali, is seen (above) turning up the heat on the competition.

Last year, a quarter-of-a-million foodie fans voted for their favourite city, with Bradford narrowly beating Glasgow and Wolverhampton to retain the Curry Capital crown.

This year, Bradford faces competition from a record 20 areas, and public voting has already begun.

Keighley Shimla Spice manager, Faisal Hussain, said Bradford deserved to win again.

He added: “I’ve been up and down the country – London, Glasgow, Cardiff – and you never have a better meal than in Bradford district.”

Each city will be represented by four restaurants, which will campaign on behalf of their area to try and win over the judges.

Local councils will also be producing dossiers about the importance of their curry houses in the wider community.

Restaurants representing our district along with Shimla Spice are Akbars in Thornbury, Omar Khans in Little Horton and Kiplings in Greengates.

The awards are organised by the Federation of Specialist Restaurants, with the winning city announced on October 13.

Visit currycapitalofbritain.org.uk/vote to register your vote.