A MEAL fit for a king was served up to members of the community at a celebratory coronation lunch.
Catering students at Rugby College welcomed guests to its on-site Courses restaurant, which was transformed into a street party as part of celebrations to mark the coronation of King Charles III.
Around 40 guests from Bilton House residential home, Farmers Court retirement living and Sesame Day Centre came to the restaurant, which was decorated with bunting, tablecloths and flowers.
The guest list also included four Health and Social Care students from Rugby College who are currently undertaking placements at the care facilities.
Level 1 and Level 2 Professional Cookery students designed a special menu for the event, with guests treated to sausage and mash or roasted red pepper stuffed with ratatouille, followed by apple crumble or meringue with mixed berries, as well as cakes to take away.
Half of the students were tasked with preparing the food, while others worked front of house taking orders and serving drinks.
Karen Augusts of Farmers Court said: “All of our residents were really excited about the event – it’s been something for them to look forward to.
“The whole event has been wonderful and all of the students have been fantastic. They were very attentive and professional, and the food was lovely.”
Gill Leedham, one of the residents at Farmers Court, added: “It’s been very nice to come out to celebrate the Coronation like this.
“We certainly weren’t expecting such delicious food – it was a real banquet. Very well done to all of the students for hosting a brilliant event.”
Christopher Dowling-Fennell, a Level 1 Professional Cookery student, was on the dessert preparation team in the kitchen.
He said: “The event was a nice way to brighten everyone’s day and give guests an opportunity to visit a restaurant.
“It was challenging to work to a deadline, ensuring guests weren’t waiting for their food and that it was still hot when served, but we all worked well together as a team to make sure the event ran smoothly.
“Events like this mean we are able to put our skills into practice while giving us a feel for the industry. We hope our guests enjoyed their meal and we would love to welcome them back in the future.”
Tracy Gibson, Head of Department for Sport, Public Services, Catering, Health, Social Care and Early Years at Rugby College, added: “This was an excellent opportunity to invite members of the community along to mark such a large occasion.
“It was also wonderful that our guests were from settings that we already have connections with at Rugby College.
“I would like to congratulate all of the students involved. They really stepped up to the plate and hosted a very professional and enjoyable event.”
