Cooking in Brae offers free winter meals as the Rural Energy Hub takes shape

Locals enjoyed a free winter warming meal prepared by Cari Shen, who is due to run the cafe at the Rural Energy Hub being created in the refurbished Brae Youth and Community Centre. Refurbishment and landscaping work is under way and a grand opening is expected in the coming weeks.

Residents in Brae recently enjoyed a free winter warming meal prepared by cook Cari Shen. The meal acted as a taster of what she is likely to provide when she runs the cafe at the Rural Energy Hub. Community pop-ins run by SIC's community development have restarted and are offering free lunches in local halls. Work to refurbish the old youth centre and prepare the outdoor space is continuing at a brisk pace. Key details: - The free meal served at the Brae hall comprised soup and a bacon roll and was presented as a taster for the future cafe. - Cari Shen is due to run the cafe at the Rural Energy Hub, which is being formed within the refurbished Brae Youth and Community Centre. - Recent soups have included butternut squash; other dishes previously prepared include Scotch broth, tattie and leek, and cakes. - Community pop-ins run by SIC's community development have restarted and will provide more free lunches in local halls. - Refurbishment work on the old youth centre is under way, landscaping at the rear has levelled the outdoor area for activities, and electric bike hire is listed as a hub feature. Summary: The meals have provided a warm, welcoming space while the Rural Energy Hub is prepared. Refurbishment and landscaping work continue and a grand opening of the hub is expected in the coming weeks.