Cash-strapped Lennox Lewis college to close

The Lennox Lewis College, which helps disadvantaged youngsters train as chefs, is to close next month because of financial problems.

Robert Payne, senior consultant with recruitment agency Portfolio International and the man behind the Opportunity on a Plate training initiative, said he was "very disappointed" to hear the news.

Speaking on the closure of the east London college that was supported by world heavyweight champion boxer Lennox Lewis, he said: "It was merely a referral agency and this is not the end of Opportunity on a Plate, it will continue."

Supporters of the scheme include contractor Catering & Allied, banqueting venue One Whitehall Place, and London restaurants Smollensky's and Yo! Sushi.

The initiative, launched one-and-a-half years ago, has already helped around 10 young chefs find work.