Youngsters learn cookery skills

“READY, STEADY, COOK”, was the cry heard from the kitchen of the Evening Star's canteen as six teenagers displayed their culinary skills.With chef Brian Quinton overseeing events, the enthusiastic group were split into three teams of two and given the order to begin cooking.

“READY, STEADY, COOK”, was the cry heard from the kitchen of the Evening Star's canteen as six teenagers displayed their culinary skills.

With chef Brian Quinton overseeing events, the enthusiastic group were split into three teams of two and given the order to begin cooking.

In their pairs, they served up a main course and dessert of their choice. Menus varied from spaghetti bolognese with chocolate pudding to chicken in apricot sauce followed by crème caramel.

For some of the group, including sixteen-year-old, Nathan Vinyard, from Chantry, it was a first time experience. Matthew Shapland, also sixteen, from Gainsborough, had some more practice in the kitchen from five years of learning Home Economics at high school. He said: “I like making desserts more than anything else. Apple crumble with custard is my speciality.”

The event was staged thanks to Suffolk Young People's Health Project (SYPHP), as part of an ongoing development to improve the health and wellbeing of teenagers in the region.

Representing the charity, Mr Quinton said: “Everyone has planned their own menus today, with the emphasis on healthy eating and a balanced diet.”

Based in Lower Brook Street, SYPHP exists to provide a wide range of services for young people, including guidance on nutrition and healthy eating, advice on sexual health and skills training.