The evening raised over £55,000 for the charity as part of its 25^th anniversary celebrations, held at Luton Hoo.

The fine dining menu was prepared for 280 guests by chefs: Vince O’Toole, Will Hughes, Cyrus Todiwala, Henry Brosi and Sarah Harnett.

Andrew Bennett and his wife Liz, who organised the event with the help of a team of volunteers, said: “Keech Hospice Care has long been a cause close to our hearts and we’ve been putting on these gala dinners for over eight years now.

“Being the 25^th anniversary of the hospice, this year we wanted to deliver an extra special event to mark the milestone.”

Heading up the brigade of chefs was Andrew Bennett, executive chef from The Sheraton Park Lane Hotel, London supported on the night by local hospitality students from Barnfield and Oakland colleges.

The sell-out evening was compèred by Nick Coffer from Three Counties Radio – a self-confessed foodie and supporter of the charity.

Menu

• Reception Canapés - Vince O’Toole - Spencer House London
• Twice baked parmesan soufflé, black figs, beetroot textures and a goat’s cheese bonbon - Will Hughes – Luton Hoo
• Anise marinated Denham Estate venison, chargrilled & wrapped with Dates and Tamarind sauce - Cyrus Todiwala  - Café Spice Namaste London
• Salt Marsh South Downs Lamb with its own Lasagne, Sweet Onion Puree and roasted Garlic, braising Jus - Henry Brosi – The Dorchester London
• Hazelnut chiboust with lemon cream, financier and coffee crunch - Sarah Hartnett – Pastry Chef consultant