Helston charity Mustard Seed has employed a new chef at their Open Door Café.

Professional chef David Pounder comes to the position with a wealth of experience, including leading a chef's brigade at a north country four star hotel.

He has grand plans to extend the scope of the menus and their catering events.

The café, at 14 Wendron Street, has now attained the highest five star rating from the Public Health Inspectorate and is pushing forward a few new initiatives.

Led by David and his wife Karen, it will soon be providing high end bistro meals two Friday per month.

These will include a variety of dishes including pan fried duck breast with blueberry sauce, rainbow trout in a white wine sauce, steak with trimmings and a vegetarian option, plus a range of starters and desserts.

David has also planned an Indian and Italian style menu, and he has ideas for Moroccan and fifties themed evenings.

Alongside their food, the café also provides guidance to adults with learning difficulties within the charity's care.

As a member of the Falmouth Emmanuel Baptist Congregation, and a local street pastor, David said he was excited to be working in this new capacity.

He said: “Having spent years working for the profit of other people, I wanted to generate funds to assist a Christian based charity, showing God's love to the community, even though this meant considerable financial sacrifice.”

He currently lives in Penryn with his wife and family.

Those interested in the bistro can phone 564194 to make a reservation, or drop in during the week.