A NEW Cookery School opens its doors to the first ‘students’ in Malton this week.

Located within an old Congregational chapel Saville Street, the Malton Cookery School is operating in partnership with the Talbot Hotel and James Martin Restaurant with the courses headed up by professional tutor Gilly Robinson.

Courses are aimed at all ages and abilities and there will also be specialist courses and demonstrations by visiting celebrity chefs including Sara Danesin Medio, who shot to fame as the great Italian cook on Masterchef, and Sara Green, well known for her jams, chutneys and curds.

The first of a series of courses starts on Friday, May 16, with a demonstration class and dinner by the Talbot Hotel’s head chef, Craig Atchinson.

Other courses, which start from £15, include a short class for parents and children, summer entertaining, Sunday brunch, picnics for the races and a course designed to take all the stress out of making food for the family.

There are classes ‘just for men’ and seasonal courses such as cooking with game and Christmas entertaining.

Over the Malton Food Lovers’ Festival weekend on May 24 and 25, there will be hourly sessions and demonstrations featuring the festival guest chefs – a great opportunity to chat with the chefs themselves and learn more about their particular style of cooking.

Course tutor Gilly Robinson said: “The kitchen is very warm and friendly, with cooking appliances similar to those we have at home rather than a professional kitchen.

"When we break for coffee or lunch we all sit together round the kitchen table which gives everyone the chance to exchange ideas and ask questions. Above all, we want people to have fun and really love what they do.

“We’re also open for exclusive use, perhaps friends who’ve got together to learn a particular skill or a corporate group activity away from the office. Our bespoke hen parties teach small groups fun things such as how to mix cocktails and make canapés.”

For more information visit www.maltoncookeryschool.co.uk

For exclusive use contact the Talbot Hotel on 01653 639096.