THE Atomic Weapons Establish-ment has donated thousands of pounds to a Basingstoke charity which supports young adults with learning difficulties.

Cafe Dome, which provides training for adults with learning disabilities to train in the catering trade, has been handed £5,000 by AWE.

Michele Maidment, secretary to the AWE community committee, said: “AWE is committed to supporting local and national charities with donations, sponsorship and practical help.

“It was a pleasure to meet the students and hear how they enjoy their time at the cafe.”

Cafe Dome, at Brighton Hill Parade, in Brighton Hill, is open four days a week to the general public, and students provide front-of-house and a coffee counter service along with food which they cook in the cafe’s kitchens.

The project relies entirely on charitable donations and fundraising.

Carl Manners, cafe manager, said: “The money will make a huge difference to the project and will help us provide more formal BTEC entry qualifications to students.”