Initiative based on the hugely successful Eagle and Child in Ramsbottom

Not content with an award-winning dining pub with a difference in Ramsbottom, entrepreneur Glen Duckett has a new project in Prestwich, The Stables at Heaton Park. The café is replica model of the Eagle and Child social enterprise EAT Pennines, a scheme which trains and employs local young people aged 14-25 to get the skills and experience to achieve a career in hospitality and catering.

‘I want to continue getting people into work, that’s why I set up the Stables,’ said Glen, 36. The café at the park had been closed for over two years before he refurbished the tired building and created a new concept. ‘It’s a great asset for people using the park as well as training people into work. The Eagle and Child business model has been delivered effectively and I wanted to duplicate it here.’

Glen said that the idea is starting to come together in Prestwich as the word about his scheme is getting out. The trainee programme works together with Babington Group, Bury College and Hopwood Hall College and he says he aims to support at least 60 young people into training and employment over the next three years.

The entrepreneur will also be working with Hopwood Hall College for a horticulture centre based in Heaton Park, which he is hoping to open at some point in 2015. It will work on the same premise as EAT Pennines, and people will take part in the scheme and leave with horticulture qualifications and experience. ‘I am going to start development on the site from January to put things in place for the summer,’ said Glen.

‘The horticultural course will also link together Incredible Edible Prestwich who will help train and take part in activities at the centre.’

Is there anything Glen can’t do?

What some of the staff say:

Kane Farnell, Trainee, 19

I like the experience at the Stables; it’s a friendly really good place. It will help with my future for jobs as I would like to go into hospitality or become full time here. I would recommend the course to others.

Eleanor Chadderton, Commis Chef and trainee mentor, 19

For the future I would like to have a career in baking and pastry is my interest. I spent three years at Hopwood Hall before a tutor suggested I come here for a job. I enjoy it here, working with everyone and the environment.

Heidi Wilson, Stables Supervisor and trainee mentor, 22

I have worked with Glen for the past three years in Ramsbottom, so moved from there to become a supervisor here. It’s a laugh and a really different experience. The trainees are really smart and are using this opportunity to the full.