A charity has launched an appeal to raise funds to teach men how to cook.

Triangle Community Garden in Hitchin is hoping to raise £3,000 for Man Made Meals - an initiative designed to teach cooking skills, reduce social isolation and increase mental wellbeing among men.

Inspired by a similar project in Kent called Man with a Pan, a group of volunteers at Triangle Community Garden plan to offer regular classes for people of all ages and abilities to learn how to prepare delicious and nutritious food on a budget. 

Organiser Vicky Wyer said: "We’re really excited about this new project, and we know it could be life-changing for those involved."

John, one of the volunteer cookery tutors at Man Made Meals, said: "It’s evident that, for various reasons, many men are not confident in the kitchen.

"We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to look after themselves by cooking and eating well and being able to share meals with friends.

"We want to prove that bereavement, age, disability or cost of living don't have to be barriers to making and enjoying good food."

The organisers hope this new project will build a community of men who are able to support each other and share homemade meals together.

In addition to learning to cook, they want these classes to provide opportunities for men to reduce social isolation, build confidence and improve their mental wellbeing.

Project manager Julie Zirngast said: "The money we raise will be used to buy kitchen equipment to set up the project and fund the first six-week block of cookery classes, which will start next spring.

"This is the first time we’ve done a Crowdfunder, but we feel this is such a strong project, people will be really excited to help make it happen.

"We have already had endorsements from Age UK Herts and Cruse Bereavement Support, who are keen to encourage people in their user groups to take part.

"If you have someone in mind who you think might need help with their cooking, why not donate on their behalf and recommend them for a place on the course?"

To make a donation, visit crowdfunder.co.uk/p/man-made-meals. This donation page will close on November 30.

To find out more about the project, visit trianglegarden.org/man-made-meals.