Mayford Grange residents have their cake and eat it

Chef Farouk Aichaine has cooked up banquets at Harrods, walked Wembley Way in his chef’s apron, mass catered for football fans at Chelsea and Arsenal….but he admits he’s had to buy cook books to help him in his newest role.

Farouk’s impressive CV spans 15 years but his new diners have a taste for cakes – and that’s not something Farouk’s ever been called on to deliver.

Farouk is the new chef at Mayford Grange, Woking’s newest lifestyle care village.

“The residents are very fond of their afternoon tea and cakes,” said Farouk. “I can put a cake out in the lounge area and it’ll be gone within the hour. I’ve had to buy books to give me new ideas.”

Farouk, who lives in New Haw, near West Byfleet, has introduced a brand new menu at the village, on the fringes of Mayford, focusing on seasonal British foods. Fish and chips are a Friday favourite and on Sundays there’s always a choice of roasts.

“I’m always talking to residents about what they have and haven’t enjoyed and changing my menus to suit,” said Farouk. “It’s good to have such close contact with them. This is their home and they should have food they enjoy on the menu.”

Mayford Grange is a purpose built village for the over 65s where residents own their own homes and have access to a range of communal facilities. Catering packages are included and Farouk’s home made cakes and biscuits are available throughout the day in the lounge area.