THE former Malvern Day Centre in Moordown, currently home to Evelyn’s Bakery, a part of the local charity the Training and Learning Company, is on the verge of opening a new café for use by the community.

Greg Singleton is the head baker of Evelyn’s Bakery. He will be preparing the food at the café while providing work experience placements for 20 people with mental health problems.

“The day centre was closed two years ago but the council were good enough to let us use the kitchen in October 2012 and we currently bake and sell food at community events,” explained Greg.

“The café is something which is a natural follow on and we hope it will be supported by those in the local area. It is a great opportunity for those with mental health problems to really benefit from this project. JP Morgan have assisted us with financial support of £1,000 and this is helping us to equip the café with crockery and much needed equipment. We are very grateful for their contribution.”

A set meal each day with a dessert is likely to cost £4, a lunch club may be formed and it is planned to offer afternoon tea.

“We aim to be competitively priced and offer a meeting place for the local community whilst they enjoy their food,” added Greg.

Volunteers are being sought to help oversee some of the work experience activity and anyone who is able to spare any time during the week should contact Greg on 07915 798 837.

This is also the number for anyone who thinks they might be able to offer further financial assistance.

Caroline Donnell, a member of the JP Morgan Community Relations Committee, commented. “We wish them well. The project should be a real benefit to the community.”

JP Morgan employs 4,000 people at its technology and operations centre in Bournemouth and has a strong history of community engagement.