Hospitality students from Central Sussex College played a vital role in the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Blond McIndoe Research Foundation, in East Grinstead.

The eight strong group, who are studying level one Diplomas in Hospitality, served food and drink to distinguished guests including: Dame Vera Lynn DBE; some of the original ‘Guinea Pigs’ (British airmen who were burnt during World War II); soldiers representing the ‘Help the Heroes’ appeal, family members of the late Sir Archibald McIndoe; and guest of honour, their patron, HRH Princess Royal.

Event organiser, Roshni Shah, Communications and Marketing Manager at the Blond McIndoe Research Foundation said: “The College is renowned for its great catering and hospitality training, and we wanted to offer students some work experience at a high profile event. Guests were most impressed by the way in which the students presented themselves.”

Student, Georgina Rhodes, 17, said: “I felt privileged to be asked to work at the event. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to meet a member of the Royal Family.” And student Jack Cherriman, 17, agreed, saying: “I was proud to represent the College, and would love to work at another big occasion.”