Mornflake shows its Might with support of Crewe’s young people

Breakfast giant Mornflake Mighty Oats is celebrating its 350^th anniversary in style – by showing its support of Crewe’s young people and becoming a Founder Patron of The Dome Youth Zone.

The long-standing family business joins a growing group of other businesses and philanthropists contributing to the charity’s annual running costs. Funding provided by Founder Patrons will make The Dome Youth Zone a fantastic place for young people, offering state-of-the-art facilities, new opportunities, and support from dedicated youth workers for the young people of Crewe.

Set to open in 2026, The Dome Youth Zone will be an independent charity with a private sector-led board. It will become part of the expanding OnSide Network of 15 Youth Zones nationwide, supporting over 50,000 young people every year. Youth Zones are open to young people aged between eight and 19 (and up to 25 for those with additional needs), seven days a week, for just £5 annual membership and 50p a visit. Young people who sign up will have access to an indoor climbing wall, four court sports hall, training kitchen, music room with a recording studio, fully equipped gym, boxing suite, dance and drama studio, 3G kick pitch, arts and crafts room, and enterprise and employability suite.

As well as these fantastic facilities, trained youth workers and dedicated volunteers will be available seven days a week to offer guidance and holistic support, helping the area’s young people to reach their potential. The Dome will also benefit the wider community and create permanent full and part-time jobs, as well as many volunteering opportunities.

Mornflake is a major South Cheshire employer currently embarking on a year of community investment across Cheshire to celebrate its 350^th anniversary. Their manufacturing site is the oldest one in Crewe, employing over 300 people.

As well as supporting young people with their generous donation towards the running costs of The Dome, the company is supporting specially selected local charities with £350 donations, and plans to plant 350 trees across Cheshire, as well as sending breakfasts to local schools. Employees will also be offering 350 hours of time to charities and projects needing extra hands.

When asked about the new partnership with The Dome Youth Zone, Mornflake managing director James Lea, said:

“We are delighted to be part of this exciting new development in the heart of Crewe during our 350th anniversary year.

“The Dome will have a lasting impact, providing young people with a safe space to learn, grow and connect.

“Supporting the project is a way to give back to Crewe and Mornflake employees who live locally with their families. We’re looking forward to seeing The Dome take shape over the next few months.”

Stuart Manifould, The Dome Youth Zone CEO, said:

“Having local brands with such a long, important history truly shows the depth of support for Crewe’s young people in our community. Mornflake’s commitment to supporting The Dome will have a lasting impact.”

Commenting on the partnership, The Dome Youth Zone Chair, Graham Ramsbottom said:

“It is my pleasure to welcome Mornflake, a family owned business and prominent employer in the local Crewe area, as a Founder Patron. It is fantastic to see their commitment to their local community and Crewe’s young people as they celebrate their 350^th anniversary. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude for their support and generosity.”

As with all OnSide’s Youth Zones, The Dome has a Young People’s Development Group – which is a group of local young people who have engaged with the Youth Zone since its announcement, and – supported by dedicated youth workers – play a key role in shaping the Youth Zone’s future. Currently they are sharing their ideas on the design of the site’s hoardings, to get the community excited about the Youth Zone, and are also taking part in regular music workshops.

We are delivering The Dome Youth Zone in partnership with Cheshire East Council and supported by several businesses and philanthropists. The Founder Patron campaign aims to achieve long-term sustainability, to ensure The Dome Youth Zone will be an asset to the community, transforming young people’s lives for generations to come.

We need support from partners like Mornflake to ensure that the doors of The Dome Youth Zone open to a first class offering. If you would like to support young people living in Cheshire East, please contact: Ellen.Birchenough@onsideyouthzones.org