TWO cafés that help borough youngsters gain valuable cooking experience, have relaunched with new American-style menus.

Top Church Training, which supports vulnerable young people across the borough, offers a three-month volunteer work programme for those aged between 16 and 25, at cafés in Salop Street, Dudley and South Street, Brierley Hill.

So far, 21 young people have completed the programme, with 90 per cent moving on to employment, education or training so this year, both venues have been relaunched to offer people the opportunity to come see, and taste what the current youngsters have been up to.

In addition to a new themed menu, people can find out more about the volunteering opportunities available and the community activities that run during café opening hours - every Thursday from 11:30am to 2pm in Dudley and 11.30am to 2pm on Wednesdays in Brierley Hill.

Dudley North MP recently visited the Dudley café to meet the project’s trained staff and volunteers to hear about the work they are doing to improve skills and job prospects.

He said: “We need make education and skills our number one priority in Dudley to attract new jobs and businesses.

“The Dudley Café project is doing brilliant work to give local youngsters real experience of the catering trade.

“I’m was pleased to meet the volunteers and try their food.”

There are continuous opportunities for those want to get involved in the café projects but volunteers must be willing to commit to spending five hours each week at the venues.

For more information, call 01384 262114.