Members of a South Shropshire support group have tackled an international culinary challenge as part of their Christmas Extravaganza.
A cook-off of dishes from Spain, Russia and Scotland picked out the master chefs among members of the SPAM (Supported People Associate Members) group.
SPAM is a user-led group of those who access support services from South Shropshire Housing Association.
Members have created a tradition of holding themed festive challenges and this year was no exception with TV’s Ready, Steady, Cook as the inspiration.
Over six weeks, members were taught how to cook a dish from one of the three countries, with the big cook-off held at Craven Arms Community Centre, complete with costumes from Spain, Russia and Scotland.
Past Christmas competitions have included ‘The Generation Game’, ‘I’m a SPAM Member, Get Me out of Here’ and ‘The SPAM Factor’.
This year’s global cuisine themed event also featured carol singers and a festive feast for everyone attending to enjoy.
Allyson Farr, housing support team leader for South Shropshire Housing Association, said: “As ever we had a great, fun day and everyone got into the spirit – even yours truly who was sporting a kilt complete with sporran!
“The SPAM members are really enthusiastic and our Christmas Extravaganza’s have built up quite a reputation. It’s a great way to see out a successful year.”
A team of nine support staff offer help to people in South Shropshire in their own homes with life skills such as form filling, completing benefit applications, money and debt management, menu planning and maintaining a secure home. The service user members of SPAM meet each month to liaise with the support team.