A Newcastle College University Centre student has used his passion for food to raise hundreds of pounds for a cancer charity.
Lewis Leng hosted an exclusive ‘Celebration of British Cuisine’ at Newcastle College’s fine dining restaurant - The Chefs' Academy.
The 21-year-old Culinary Arts degree student raised more than £700 for Cancer Research UK, as he served up a special menu for 40 friends, family and VIP guests in March.
“Planning and running an event is a requirement of my degree” explained Lewis. “I wanted to take the opportunity to try and benefit others. Luckily the College was supportive of that.
“I’ve lost family and friends to cancer so it’s a cause close to my heart.”
The College’s support was crucial to the event as staff closed the restaurant to the public to provide the venue and covered 50% of the food costs. Lewis covered the remaining costs to allow proceeds of ticket sales to go directly to the charity.
Craig Cowan, Head of Hospitality at Newcastle College said: “All of our students are tasked with running an event as this is a crucial skill to have working in the hospitality sector.
“We think it’s fantastic that Lewis has taken the chance to support Cancer Research UK.
"It’s a great cause and we’ve been more than happy to support in any way we can. It turned out to be a brilliant evening.”
Lewis ran a raffle supported by local businesses with one of the top prizes a Sunday Lunch at Consett’s Travellers Rest – where the ambitious student is a member of the kitchen staff.
He added: “I couldn’t have done this event without the support of the hospitality team at Newcastle College and the generosity of local businesses.
“I’d like to thank everyone for coming and supporting a wonderful evening.
“It’s been a brilliant night and the team working in the kitchen did an amazing job.”
Find out more about a Culinary Arts degree at Newcastle College University Centre or explore a range of hospitality courses and qualifications at Newcastle College here.
