A NEW recruiting campaign is being launched to find a new round of apprentices for a £500,000 groundbreaking restaurant project in Dartmouth.

The Dartmouth Apprentice — set up to help homeless and jobless people put their lives back together — was opened in what was once an old Dartmouth church in August 2008.

It is now looking for new apprentices for both the kitchen and front of house — and a new gardening project.

The restaurant is planning to grow its own fruit and vegetables as part of its Dartmouth operation.

Restaurant manager Nina Stanesby said: "We want to create as many opportunities as we can in as many areas as possible, so this is an ideal way to do this.

"If you're keen to learn about all aspects of gardening with support and training from local professionals, this could be a nice challenge.

"One of our chefs has his own allotment and the idea for having a restaurant allotment was borne out of that — it takes the whole process from start to finish for us — growing, harvesting and cooking, and we'll be using the produce in our own preserves and chutneys as well as in the restaurant."

Totnes JobcentrePlus is holding two recruitment days at its New Walk base — tomorrow from 10am to 4pm and Friday March 12 from 10am to 2pm.

Janine Fadian (pictured), from JobcentrePlus, said: "JobcentrePlus has worked with the Dartmouth Apprentice restaurant from the start and we're very proud of the strong relationship we've developed with them.

"It's really rewarding to be involved in finding ways to support the business. The restaurant has signed a Local Employment Partnership agreement with us which has meant we've been able to get to know the business needs, and to offer a service tailored to them and, of course, it's a fantastic opportunity for our customers."

Funded by the London-based Training for Life charity, the restaurant, trattoria bar and delicatessen were officially opened last year by restaurateur, caterer and TV food expert Prue Leith.

For further information about the recruitment days call Janine on 01803 356229, or speak to your adviser. More information about the Dartmouth Apprentice can be found at www.dartmouth apprentice.com