THE kitchen team from the Lakeside Hotel & Spa took over Furness College restaurant to give aspiring chefs a special insight into what it takes to run a top-notch eaterie.

A new partnership between Furness College and 2AA rosette-rated, it is part of the work the hotel’s Head Chef, Richard Booth, is doing with the local community to inspire the next generation of chefs.

Along with three of his talented team, Richard was on hand for a fully-booked night in the college’s restaurant to support NVQ Level 2 students in Food, Beverage and Professional Cookery. Together they created a seven course tasting menu for 34 guests, setting up and preparing the food during the day, ready for a busy night’s service.

“The aim was to give young people a real life insight into what it takes to work in the hospitality industry and to instil a sense of passion about what aspiring chefs put on their plate," said Mr Booth. "This is the first time we have done this type of session with Furness College and with a seven course tasting menu to prepare, the pressure was on. But everyone definitely rose to the challenge and I think it created a real buzz among the students.”

Jenna Waiting, 18, from Ulverston, is studying on the Level 2 Diploma in Food, Beverage and Professional Cookery Studies, said: “Working with Richard and his team has been really inspiring – I’ve loved it, it’s been brilliant.

"It has been hard and demanding work but all of us have really enjoyed the experience and we’ve learnt a lot. Working with a Head Chef from a prestigious local hotel has taught us the importance of being organised, listening to instructions and having the opportunity to work independently as well as part of a team.

"The menu was really varied and unusual so it taught us new skills in preparation and serving techniques. After this event I’m really inspired to work somewhere like the Lakeside Hotel, so I hope I’ve impressed!”

Rees Fisher, Demi Chef de Partie at Lakeside Hotel & Spa, has also been working with the catering students to pass on his knowledge and experience.

He said: “It’s been great working with the students who’ve been really enthusiastic in their approach to their work. I’ve enjoyed passing on my knowledge as I know from my own experience how important this is in helping you to develop your skills in the industry."