Young Footballers Participate in Indian Cookery Contest

Seven teenagers from Lawford Football Club, all young footballers, participated in a cook-off competition. During the event, they received instruction on preparing Indian cuisine using fresh ingredients. The head chef at The Mogul Restaurant in Manningtree, Essex, provided his kitchen for the activity. Minnar Miah commented, stating: “These days youngsters go out and eat all of the fatty food – they need to learn a good curry and good tasty rice to enjoy themselves.” The restaurant’s owner is orchestrating various events to generate awareness for the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity and its Cancer Wellbeing Fund. As part of these efforts, the restaurant will host an auction in January to benefit the charity. Mr. Miah, whose father passed away from cancer during his youth, expressed his desire to teach young individuals how to cook healthy meals and encourage them to avoid takeout food. The restaurant serves as a sponsor for the football club. Sid, a 13-year-old footballer, mentioned that he had been practicing preparing Indian dishes at home with his mother in anticipation of the contest. The participants prepared three specific dishes: lamb korai, chicken bhuna, and chicken tikka pathia. Joseph, also aged 13, remarked: “It was very fun to learn because I haven’t cooked much in the past except from at school.” He added, “It’s an experience to remember.” Dan Bailey, the senior fundraising manager for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, stated: “We are delighted with this kind show of support from Ben and Minar.” He further added, “It underlines the valuable role that businesses and organisations play in making a vital difference to health in their local community.”