MEMBERS of Kirkby Stephen’s youth club hosted a dinner party for 25 local VIPs in a bid to say ‘thankyou’ for their support.

The Masonic Hall in the town was the place to be for the ‘Come Dine With Me-style’ evening, where more than a dozen youngsters cooked up a storm.

“I was so impressed with the young people,” said Sarah Bowman, community development officer for Eden Housing Association, which supports the group.

”They conducted themselves in a very professional manner and individually showed some wonderful skills, ranging from peeling and chopping to etiquette and then endurance whilst washing up and clearing away.

“It has created a real buzz in the town and just goes to illustrate what can be done when communities come together.”

The youngsters, aged between eight and 14, served guests an impressive menu of soup, curry and apple crumble or meringue.

Those in attendance included funders, committee members and volunteers, who all help keep the service going.

After the meal they were treated to a game of bingo.

In total they donated around £170 on the night to help keep the group going.