Chapter One played host to Kent’s finest chefs this week as they cooked their way to raising thousands for a local charity.

The restaurant’s Andy McLeish joined fellow Michelin Star holders Stephen Harris (The Sportsman), Graham Garrett (The West House), Daniel Hatton (Thackeray’s) and Tim Johnson (Apicius), to produce a seven-course menu in aid of the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

South London-born Gary Rhodes is patron of the organisation and gave a speech after dinner had been served. 

Heralded as the ‘Night of the Kent Chefs’, the event, held at the Locksbottom venue on Monday evening, saw £16,000 collected for the cause.

Mr McLeish said: “The event was a huge success. It was a great experience working with such esteemed chefs in my kitchen.

“We had a lot fun and the food was outstanding, but most importantly we raised a large amount for a worthy charity. We have all spoken about doing it again next year… so watch this space.”

Visitors tucked into a local menu featuring the likes of oysters, rabbit and apples, while a silent auction also took place, with prizes including dining experiences with some of the cooks.

The foundation was set up after a past member of Mr McLeish’s kitchen brigade, Daniel Nicholls, saw his life change forever following a freak holiday accident.