A CHEF is to reopen a dilapidated pub as a social enterprise that will help young people struggling to find work become more employable.

Glen Duckett, who is originally from Clayton-le-Moors is reopening the Eagle and Child, in Whalley Road, Ramsbottom on October 8, after the pub undergoes a complete refurbishment.

The 33-year-old, who has experience in horticulture and catering, has devised a concept that he hopes will help young people not in education or training, back on to the road to success.

Glen said: “Predominantly, we will be a commercial dining pub serving top quality food and cask ales.

“What makes my concept different is that I have devised a social enterprise called EAT Pennine that will offer young people between 16 and 19, the chance to take part in work experience and part time work, while working towards a vocational qualification.

“My plan is to then help these young people into entry level jobs by making connections with other restaurant or pub owners.”

Glen, who is leasing the pub through Thwaites Brewery, will be living above it when it opens next month.

He will also be working with NACRO, a charity striving to change the lives of young people on the wrong path, to provide the training and qualifications.

Glen said: “The whole idea is to get more young people to identify with the food sector, from growing, to cooking, to serving.

"We want to give them the skills so they can make a career in horticulture, hospitality or catering.”

Next year, Glen also plans to work with Incredible Edible Ramsbottom to develop an edible beer garden which can be used for educating purposes and food in the pub.