Teenage chef Dexter Olejarka gave cookery demonstrations and handed out copies of his recipe leaflet at an open day to mark Alton Foodbank’s 15th birthday on Saturday.

Fourteen-year-old Dexter, from Four Marks, created recipes using ingredients typically available from the foodbank.

He said: “My favourite recipe in the leaflet is the flatbread recipe because it is easy to make and you can use it in lots of different ways.

“I enjoyed putting together the recipes in the leaflet. I wanted to help create something that would make cooking feel less intimidating and show that you can make tasty meals with simple ingredients.

“I hope the leaflet gives people confidence to try new recipes, make the most of the food they have available, and enjoy spending time cooking together as a family.”

Alton Foodbank was founded in November 2011 by members of Hope Church and evolved into a charity which joined the Trussell foodbank network to strengthen its support and access national expertise on food poverty.

Open day visitors explored its recently refurbished centre in Market Square, met volunteers, learned how it supported people in Alton and its surrounding villages, and enjoyed refreshments, home-baked cake and a tombola.

Last year Alton Foodbank supported 1,998 people - slightly more than the population of Ropley. Its aim is to reduce the need for its services by helping people achieve greater independence and financial stability.

Deputy Alton town mayor Cllr Chris Botten cut its 15th birthday cake. He said: “I was especially impressed by the close links between the Alton Foodbank and Citizens Advice, which ensures that people get a wraparound level of support for the challenges they are facing.

“There is so much great work done, not just to secure financial support where appropriate but also to ensure families are supported through their life challenges. It is such a powerful helping hand.”