FROM the classroom to the carnival — talented young chefs are set to put their skills to the test later this month.

Prestwich Carnival organisers have invited catering students from St Monica's Sixth Form College in Bury Old Road, Prestwich, to provide food at the showcase event on June 20 and June 21.

The students, who are mainly aged 16 to 18, will be based at the Phoenix Centre within St Mary's Park and are set to serve dozens of volunteers on the Saturday before opening up a cafe to thousands of revellers the following day.

Carnival committee chairman Frank Shatliff went to the college to meet the students last Thursday.

"They are a really good bunch and everyone is very enthusiastic about food. We can't wait to have them," said Mr Shatliff.

He added: "The carnival is all about bringing together people from different parts of our community and I am delighted to say that we will have young people from Parrenthorn High School and Prestwich Arts College taking part in the carnival as well."

The students run their own on-site cafe called Brasserie Monique, which invites members of public to dine at lunch time on weekdays during term time by advanced booking.

Last week, Parklife Weekender festival production staff also dined at the college.