A PROJECT which aims to improve lives through cookery has won £2,000 worth of kitchen appliances after finishing third in a national competition.

Little Sprouts, a community interest company which operates across the Tees Valley, was shortlisted by judges in the Stoves Community Kitchens competition, set up by British cooking brand Stoves.

The contest aimed to recognise the best community initiatives across the UK.

Little Sprouts delivers cooking workshops using its mobile kitchen and attempts to engage hard to reach communities.

It promotes invaluable life skills, budgeting, nutrition education and practical cooking.

The project will use the prize it has received to support a community café for homeless people in Stockton.

Debbie Fixter, co-owner of Little Sprouts, said: “We are thrilled to have been a part of the Stoves Community Kitchens competition and overjoyed to have come third.

“The appliances will support a community cafe for homeless people who are currently residing in hostel accommodation in Stockton.

“The café will provide low cost, home-cooked meals and a safe place to reconnect with the community.”

Jonathan Casley, managing director of Stoves’ parent company Glen Dimplex Home Appliances, said: “Community projects which provide support, care, comfort and activities play a vital role in towns, cities and villages across the country and we are delighted to be able to help some of them in a small way.”