A BRADFORD councillor has called for chefs in the city to be recognised.

“Bradford has been the home of many international chefs who have added to the city’s diverse culture and economy,” said Councillor Mohammed Shafiq (Lab, Bradford Moor).

Today is International Chef Day and Cllr Shafiq said: “We must recognise the hard work and efforts of chefs who deliver mouth-watering food to the people of Bradford.

“I started my working life at the Karachi Restaurant in Bradford so I have seen first-hand the hard graft that goes into cooking speciality food for customers to enjoy. Nothing made me prouder than Rick Stein’s visit and giving Pakistani food the recognition it truly deserves.

“Just recently I took a friend from Leeds to Taaza Khana and they were amazed at what was cooked up at this backstreet eatery tucked away from the bright lights of Leeds Road.

“We are so lucky to have places like this all over Bradford so let’s celebrate International Chef and National Waiters Day but also acknowledge injustices facing the industry like bad bosses, poor pay and unreasonable working conditions.

“After the success of Sheffield Gets Organised, a trade union initiative was launched in Leeds to mobilise hospitality workers at a chain pub. It’s giving hope to a demoralised workforce. If you’re working in this industry then I highly recommend you join a union.”