Five stroke survivors have regained their taste for life after completing a ten-week cookery course at Jamie Oliver’s Ministry of Food in Bradford.

The cookery group, all users of The Stroke Association’s Bradford Back To Life service, had different reasons for completing the course.

Rachel Charlton, 42, of Bradford, had only used a microwave since her stroke seven years ago.

“After my stroke, I was physically unable to use the cooker and then I lost my confidence to cook, so using the microwave seemed the only option,” she said.

“On the course I discovered new tastes and healthy choices and regained my confidence in the kitchen. I am now waiting for my new cooker!”

Maxine Gabbitas, 53, of Keighley, had a stroke in 1992, leaving her with mobility problems which resulted in her gaining weight.

She wanted to learn to cook healthier meals, and said: “I have to manage on a budget. The meals were healthy and economical. I now have some tasty, healthy recipes.”

Bobby Wood, 52, of Bradford, experienced taste changes following her stroke in 2010.

She said: “Now my taste is returning, I want to try new textures and flavours – this group gave me that opportunity. My husband says I’m ‘back to my best’, after I presented him with toad-in-the-hole made at the group!”

Rosalie Jozefek, a Back To Life co-ordinator for The Stroke Association, said: “The course has given everyone a real boost in terms of confidence and knowledge, for both cooking novices and those who have cooked for years – everyone took something positive away.

“We learnt from the Ministry of Food and they learnt about the obstacles stroke survivors have to overcome in the kitchen. Disability Equipment Bradford kindly loaned a variety of adapted utensils for us to try, it was a win-win situation for all concerned.”

The Bradford Ministry of Food Centre, held just outside the Oastler Shopping Centre, is one of four in the UK. For information ring (01274) 435279.

The Stroke Association’s Back To Life Service in Bradford helps stroke survivors enjoy social and occupational opportunities and to set personal goals.

For further information about stroke or The Stroke Association, contact the Stroke Information Service on 0303 30 33 100, or visit stroke.org.uk.