SHEFFIELD'S answer to Jamie Oliver is poised to serve up a treat for clueless chefs – as long as they agree to pass on the benefit to their families.
Janet Coghlan, head of Coghlan's Cookery School, is offering 16 free places on a beginners' cookery course, each worth £150.
In the style of Jamie's Ministry of Food, members will be taught how to make simple, tasty dishes including omelette, roas
t chicken, soup, pie, curry and casserole. All equipment and ingredients will be supplied.
But, unlike Jamie, Janet won't ask her students to teach their new-found skills to others – instead, they will be expected to go home and simply cook a meal for their families.
"Children get introduced to good food at school but when they go home it's the parents who can't cook. So we want to target the parents," says Janet.
With the help of husband Andrew, Rangemaster cookers and a whole galaxy of local stars, she organised a Sporting Chefs challenge and dinner last year.
Half of the money went to Children in Need and half to launch a new cookery foundation – to fund cookery classes for those who need them most.
"I think a lot of people are a bit nervous about coming to the cookery school, because they really don't know where to start in the kitchen and they're embarrassed. But there are so many people who would benefit and that's why we're starting from scratch…
"Like single dads who have to take their kids to McDonald's because they can't cook for them. Or grandparents who are struggling to make ends meet, or mums, or even groups of parents who have never learned how to cook."
Janet is proposing to hold two special cookery courses at Coghlan's Cookery School on June 23 and 24, starting at 9.30am and finishing at 4pm. There will be eight places on each day.
Do you know someone who would like to learn basic home cooking? Either write to Janet or email her, telling her why that person or persons should have a place. Winners will be notified.
Email food@cookingexpert.co.uk or write to Janet Coghlan, Unit 5b Broom Business Park, Bridge Way, Sheepbridge, Chesterfield S41 9QG.
BUY ONLINE:
The Sheffield Telegraph and Property Guide are now out every Thursday. To sign up on line click here.
MORE:
Local News
Local Sport
Arts Guide
Community News
Listings Guide
Restaurant Guide
Letters