'It showcases Norwich so well – the Moveable Feast has become quite a phenomenon.'
Those were the words of a Norwich woman who attended one of the city's biggest charity events for the first time, which once again sold of tickets.
1,126 foodies helped to more than £27,000 for Parkinson's UK – beating last year's total of £24,000 - as Lloyd Addison's Moveable Feast returned to Norwich for its 18th year last night (September 18).
Founded by Norwich restaurateur Lloyd, who died from the disease, it has since been organised by his widow Cynthia with help from John Brierley, Nick Mills (managing director of Brasted's and Norfolk Food & Drink patron), pub owner Nick De'Ath, and Becky Redbond, and Chris Chambers from Parkinson's UK.
Diners have no idea where they'll be heading until they receive their ticket, printed with a destination for the starter, main course and dessert. They are then invited to vote (out of 10) for each course.
Clare Haylett, of Cozens-Hardy LLP, who sponsored the charity event for the eighth year, said: 'Lloyd wanted to do something for the restaurant scene in Norwich while raising money for a good cause. His widow, Cynthia, took it on with help from a couple of friends.
'This year was my first time and it was absolutely amazing. It gets people round the city; al the restaurants really embraced it.'
The feast is also a great way of spotlighting local independent restaurants, she said.
'It's also to showcase local independent restaurants. It showcases Norwich so well – it's quite a phenomenon. Lots of people come every year because their family has been affected by Parkinson's.
'We found out last year that the Moveable Feast is the biggest volunteer-led fundraising event for Parkinson's UK outside of London – and it's happening in Norwich. It's crazy.
It's also helping to boost the restaurant trade in Norwich, she says.
'The restaurant trade has taken a hammering; it's not easy to keep restaurants going, but events like this really help.
'They introduce people to new places and types of food that they may not otherwise try.
'Of course summer is busy for restaurant owners but it's a struggle to keep things going after that. Events like the Moveable Feast keep people buzzing around the city, even in September.'
The winning restaurant will be announced next week.
For more information visit www.moveablefeastnorwich.org
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