SIX fathers and grandfathers, one of whom is blind, have been awarded a professional cooking qualification.

All six were novice cooks when they embarked on an Open College Network course, funded by the Learning and Skills Council Tees Valley.

A basic cookery course was set up for men at South Bank, Middlesbrough, to help them prepare and cook healthy meals for themselves and their families.

Lessons took place at Redcar Adult Learning Centre, and the course covered everything from how to make simple items to serving a three-course dinner.

Students also found out about budgeting when shopping and hygiene.

Certificates were awarded at the end of the course, including one in braille for a blind learner who attended the classes with his guide dog.

The course proved so popular that all the men will continue with their kitchen training.