AN event hosted by hospitality students to raise money for local charity The Pink Place was held in The Restaurant at BCoT.

Level 3 Hospitality students, led by Jade Smith, who was head chef for the night, organised the whole event, including creating and preparing all the dishes.

The Pink Place is a breast cancer charity based in Basingstoke.

It was co-founded by former Hospitality lecturer Julia Dingwall, who lost her battle to cancer two years ago.

The charity relies on volunteers to give free therapies, beauty treatments and support to those who are affected by the disease.

The event was sold out weeks in advance, and 58 lucky diners attended the evening, raising more than £1,000.

“We were absolutely thrilled with how much money we raised,” said Jade.

“Everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer, and we were proud to donate our profits to a local charity that does much for those affected by the disease.”

Jade said that the experience taught her and her classmates a great deal about what it takes to run a successful event, and how to overcome many challenges which occur along the way.

Jade added: “I also learned that I am very capable in the role of a manager, which is what I want to do when I leave college. I am definitely more assertive now.”

Diners were equally thrilled with the food served during the evening, with one lady describing it as “one of the most creative menus I have had. Each dish was just as good as the other”.

Andy Chilton, lecturer in Hospitality, said: “I am just so proud of these young people who worked tirelessly to host such a successful event.

“Throughout it all, they demonstrated a mature, enthusiastic and committed approach and I know everyone at The Pink Place was thrilled with the effort made by the students, and the money raised.”