Teen chefs cook up support with hospital fundraiser

A group of talented young chefs have showcased their skills in a charity dinner to raise funds for the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital’s (RD&E) Super Theatre Appeal.

Students from the Michael Caines Academy at Exeter College cooked up a feast for around 70 guests at St Thomas Baptist Church, raising more than £600 for the Royal Devon Hospitals Charity’s campaign to build a state-of-the-art operating theatre.

Tickets for the event sold out completely, raising an additional £600 for Dementia UK. Diners enjoyed a gourmet menu including smoked salmon crostini, mushroom and spinach pasta, and a mascarpone and strawberry tart, all prepared by the next generation of culinary talent.

The event was masterminded by 17-year-old Lana Cousley, who is studying for her Diploma in Professional Cookery at the academy, which was established by former student and Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines.

Lana approached her cookery school tutors with the idea, and they not only backed her plan but also covered the cost of the food, ensuring every penny raised went directly to the two charities.

Lana was thrilled by the success of the evening and the generosity of the community.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for us to showcase our cookery skills while raising money for two incredible causes,” she said. “The team of girls who helped me are absolutely incredible, and none of this would have been possible without them.

“Huge thanks also to everyone who came along on the night and to the college for providing all the ingredients, allowing us to donate every penny raised.”

Ian Biggar, Tutorial Area Manager for Hospitality at the academy, was full of praise for his students.

“They all did an amazing job and showed real enthusiasm, teamwork, and professionalism. It was fantastic to see them put their skills into action while supporting such a great cause.”

Tom Darby-Clark, community fundraiser at Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, also praised the students' efforts:

“Lana and the team were brilliant. Not only was it a treat to be served such delicious food by some of Exeter’s most talented young chefs, but it was also incredibly inspiring to see them supporting our Super Theatre Appeal.

“This state-of-the-art operating theatre will revolutionise surgery at RD&E, reducing risks, improving recovery times, and enhancing patient care across Devon. Every pound raised takes us one step closer to making this a reality.”

So far, they have raised more than £1,200 for the Super Theatre Appeal and Dementia UK. To find out more about the Super Theatre Appeal, click here.