The Order of Gentlemen returned to the Copperstone Thai Restaurant in Linthorpe to present them with the coveted annual trophy. Only Simon was missing due to a heavy cold, Mark volunteered to be one of the drivers as he was nearing the end of his ‘dry’ January adventure. Well done Mark.

We were made to feel very welcome and our drinks order arrived very quickly, a selection of Peroni, Asahni lager (which means lightning) the drivers soft drinks and a couple of lucky Buddha’s completed the round.

While we waited for the starters to arrive the main event of the evening took place. The trophy was presented to Lewis, the Manager at Copperstone. He graciously accepted it and said he knew exactly where it was going to be displayed.

The selection of starters consisted of Korean BBQ chicken, a chicken satay skewer which was cooked to perfection, salt and pepper chicken, vegetable spring rolls and tempura king prawns. A varied choice which came with another round of drinks. The relaxed atmosphere enhanced the dining experience.

The main meals followed shortly after, a stir fry with meat and king prawns, Singapore noodles with cod and crunchy vegetables, three had gone for the hanging chicken skewer which was succulent and tender. Two had pushed the boat out and added an extra skewer!! Whilst the sticky rice is an acquired meal accompaniment, an additional choice of sauces to the peanut satay would have enhanced the meal. Other selections included the Thai green curry and the crying tiger steak. Both really delicious.

The new voting format allows the trophy winner to defend their crown in January. Fair to say this was a successful bid to retain the award and I feel they will be in the running come the dark winter nights.

We would like to thank Lewis and his team for a fantastic night.