Frazer Wilson, director of culinary at Jockey Club Catering, said: “It’s been a real joy to work with the students at South Thames College and we’re delighted to have been named as patrons in 2017.

“It’s hugely rewarding to see the next generation take to the hospitality industry so passionately and we look forward to seeing what menus and concepts they develop next year.”

Students designed menus for Jockey Club Rooms throughout the season, serving and preparing food for the Investec Derby, which included a seafood bar concept serving Pimm’s cured smoked salmon with a strawberry salad, plus crayfish tails with an orange and tarragon dressing.

Jockey Club Catering will be further developing the programme and providing additional opportunities and support for students across the 15 racecourses where the caterer operates.