Tray handling skills and speedy seervice will be put to the test when Norwich restaurant waiters, bar staff and coffee makers take part in a fun race around city streets.

Eastern Daily Press: Waiters from across Norwich take part last year's Waiter's Day Race. Photo: Sonya DuncanWaiters from across Norwich take part last year's Waiter's Day Race. Photo: Sonya Duncan (Image: ARCHANT EASTERN DAILY PRESS (01603) 772434)

Norwich is to embracing annual National Waiters' Day with another fun charity race around Norwich city centre that will test the skills of the city's hospitality staff.

Restaurants, café, pubs, hotels and and coffee shops are being encouraged to sign up and get their staff to take part in the race across the city on May 22.

The race will start at 10am at the Library Restaurant courtyard on Guildhall, and follow a route down Goal Hill along the Back Of The Inns, up Hay Hill and to the finish line at the War memorial on St Peters Street.

Jayne Raffles, owner of The Library Restaurant, explained: 'All you need to take part is a tray and lots of enthusiasm. Participants will be provided with plastic wine glasses and a plastic bottle of water, and each waiter will start with a glass of water and 100 points.

'After the race, points will be deducted for any spillage. We would love to see as many front of house staff from businesses across Norwich taking part.'

National Waiters' Day was the brainchild of Fred Sirieix and is designed to celebrate all front of house staff, from fine dining restaurant waiters to mixologists, bartenders and baristas. It aims to showcase the dedication, skills and hard work of staff, as well as the great potential for rewarding careers in the hospitality industry, which employs 2.9 million people in the UK.

The cost per team (up to 2 runners) is £10, with teams of three and above costing £30 and entry forms are available to download at www.nationalwaitersday.com. All proceeds will go to the charity Hospitality Action. www.hospitalityaction.org.uk