DUNMOW Arts Centre is extending its reach into the community this New Year – thanks to a �13,000 grant.

The popular facility in Haslers Lane is set to offer cooking courses in a brand new kitchen and art studio following the grants from the Youth Opportunity Foundation and the Chiron Fund which has allowed the centre to completely refurbish the space.

Classes will be for all ages and teach everything from making sugar flowers to cooking classes for students back from university.

Mikki Rom of the arts centre said: “It has been totally transformed and it looks amazing.

“At the moment there is nowhere for young people to learn how to cook but we now have that facility.

“We will be using it in every which way we can because it is more than just a kitchen; it is also going to be used for arts and crafts. There will be teaching courses in cake baking as well as painting, and not just for young people but adults as well.”

The centre is currently working on a schedule of classes and will be releasing details in the next few weeks.

It is also looking to have the grand opening next month, and will be inviting various local dignitaries as well as representatives from the grant-making organisations.

The arts centre, which relies entirely on donations, has also received money to aid the project from the Great Dunmow Round Table, Veolia and UCC Leisure and Culture for kitchen equipment.

Ms Rom added: “I would like to thank everybody because we have been sent so much money.

“We were able to go to IKEA and buy all the pots, pans and cooking equipment we’ll need as well as three weeks worth of food.”

The new arts, crafts and cooking studio will be up and running from March 5. To book on to any of the courses call 01371 878020.

? Dunmow Arts Centre is open seven days a week with studios to hire for one off events as well as regular use for all local groups and people.

It boasts various sizes of studios ranging from �13.20 to �27.50 per hour.

Opening hours are 7.30am-9.30pm and parking is available with a permit, available from reception