MEMBERS of Inverclyde's New Scots community are getting the chance to share amazing culinary creations with the people of Inverclyde thanks to the team at Lyle Gateway. 

The International Cafe, based at Lyle Kirk, is giving people from a huge variety of cultures who are living in Inverclyde a platform to prepare delicious dishes. 

At the most recent gathering, almost 70 people from all over Inverclyde attended and tucked into a spicy chicken and rice dish, and a farni dessert from Afghanistan. 

The amazing food was prepared by New Scots Khalida Zadran and Adela Afzaly, and the kitchen and table service was provided by members of the New Scots community. (Image: George Munro)

Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan popped into the cafe to show his support for the many cultures represented in Inverclyde. 

He said: "Inverclyde welcomes New Scots. 

"They make a very positive contribution to Inverclyde socially and economically.

"I wholeheartedly support the New Scots community in Inverclyde.
(Image: George Munro)
 "Inverclyde has always been a transient community and people come and go all the time. 

"People coming into the community and leaving again is a common thing for Inverclyde and we're just continuing that by embracing our New Scots."

Minister at Lyle Kirk, Rev Jonathan Fleming, said it was great to see the cafe 'growing and flourishing'. 

He added: "It was really encouraging to see so many people here today.

"People are enjoying learning more about the different cultures that we have here in Inverclyde. 

"What better way to bring people together than over food at a table."

(Image: George Munro)
Derek Mitchell, community development leader at Lyle Gateway, leads in the organisation of the cafe which runs every Friday from 12.30-3pm. 

He added: "We saw a lot more customers than we expected today. 

"It's all about celebrating the different cuisines of our New Scots community, getting people together, and having a chat."