ROYSTON MP Oliver Heald enjoyed a meal at Italian restaurant Palazzo this week as part of national apprenticeships week.

Apprentice chef Stephen Cook, 18, served up a three course meal for Mr Heald and his wife Christine The Kneesworth Street eatery, with the North Herts East MP praising the food and Palazzo’s hard work with apprenticeships.

“Apprenticeships are vital if we are to have the sort of skilled workforce that’s needed in Britain and I’m delighted that Palazzo are doing this and that we’re able to publicise national apprenticeship week,” he said.

“It’s really about recognising the fact that employers are willing to give young people a chance to pass on their skills. The recognition is justified as they are doing something for themselves and for Britain.”

The meal featured Italian cheese, lasagne and tiramisu and was prepared “delightfully” according to Mr Heald.

“Stephen is obviously learning his trade very well and served this meal up delightfully,” he said. “I’ll have to watch my weight for the rest of the week!”

Stephen Cook said: “I’m really enjoying this apprenticeship - it’s everything I thought it would be.

“I enjoyed cooking for Mr Heald and his wife and hope he enjoyed it too.”