PEOPLE who dream of becoming the next Delia Smith or Jamie Oliver are being invited to sample free hotel and catering courses.

A man in the kitchen, bread- making for beginners or an introduction to the pub and licensed trade course are all on offer at Darlington College of Technology.

These, and various courses, start from January and last between two days and eight weeks.

Funding has been given to the hotel and catering department to encourage a return to learning.

Department head Peter Bell said: "We are trying to break down the barriers to learning and are aware that cost is often an issue.

"We will make new students very welcome and do our best to help them enjoy returning to learning."

For a list of all courses offered from next month, contact the college information line on (01325) 503030 and ask for a new courses booklet, or visit the college website on www.darlington.ac.u