Willen Hospice has partnered up with local chefs and bakers to help MK residents learn new culinary skills in lockdown, while raising much-needed funds for the charity.

The first of four virtual classes is a three-course Valentine’s Day Dinner, taking place on Friday 12 February, 5.30 – 7pm. Streamed live via Zoom, Ashley from Hilltop Catering will be demonstrating how to make a refreshing Rocket and Prosciutto salad starter, the perfect Chicken and Chorizo Paella, before finishing with a delicious desert; triple chocolate covered strawberries with an Oreo crumb. Vegetarian options are available as well.

Tracey Jago, Willen Hospice Events Manager, said: “Our Valentine’s Day virtual cooking class is a great way to treat a loved one to a surprise dinner in, cook together as a ‘date night’, or even a rehearsal for the main event. Plus, master gastronomic tricks and tips from a professional chef.

“Over the past year, our fundraising has taken a huge hit, but despite this our doctors and nurses are working harder than ever. They’re doing all they can to help relieve pressure on the NHS, supporting a broader caseload in our Hospice, and more and more people who are coping with their illnesses in their own homes to keep them safe and out of hospital. Taking part in our Virtual Cooking Classes is a great way to have fun and also raise funds to support the vital work we are doing.”

Ashley, Hilltop Catering, said: “Willen Hospice is a great Milton Keynes’ charity, and it’s my pleasure to help them during this challenging time. I’m really looking forward to teaching the Valentine’s Day virtual cooking class, paella is one of my favourite meals to cook and I can’t wait to show other people how to do it.”

The second class on Friday 12 March is a Mother’s Day cupcakes and decorating skills session, taught by published Cookbook author, Alix Carey from My Kitchen Drawer. This will be followed by an Easter Sunday Lunch with a twist, by Aaron from Chef Hat Home, and then Ashley from Hilltop Catering will be back in the summer to show local people how to make the best homemade picnic.

It’s just £12 per class, or book all four classes and receive a 20% discount. All of the chefs and bakers are kindly donating their time and skills so the money raised will help support the Hospice during the pandemic.

Visit www.willen-hospice.org.uk/cooking to book.