THE idea came from some Asian women who were having English lessons at St Paul's and the local school in Manningham, Bradford diocese. Some of the women, their tutor, Michelle Moyle, says, wanted to learn how to cook British food such as scones, Yorkshire pudding, and sponge cakes, and they were also keen to teach their English friends how to cook South Asian food.

"So far, we have had two sessions with 12 ladies. We've learned to make scones and lasagne [pictured] - admittedly an adopted 'British' dish - and next week we're really looking forward to some of the Pakistani ladies' teaching us how to make samosas.

"There are four different nationalities represented in the group - Pakistani, German, English, and Irish - and we hope to learn different recipes from each country. For those with little English, it's a fantastic opportunity for them to improve their language skills and learn to follow a recipe."

The Vicar of St Paul's, the Revd Alistair Helm, is enthusiastic about the scheme. "It's great to see the church used like this, and a lovely way for local women to make friends and learn new skills. I'm just waiting for them to leave some samples in the kitchen for me."