COLCHESTER'S traditional Oyster Feast welcomed VIP guests to the Dedham Talbooth today, with a fantastic turnout.

Mayor Lesley Scott-Boutell was delighted to bring so many people together to celebrate the Oyster Feast and rais money for her charities - Colchester Pride, Guts UK, RSPCA Essex Mid and North Essex, the Royal Association for Deaf People, and Support Our Paras.

The annual Oyster Feast was first held in 1845 and has long been a major event on Colchester’s civic calendar, celebrating the city’s rich heritage and strong community ties.

Ms Scott-Boutell said: “I am absolutely delighted by the overwhelming generosity and warmth shown at this year’s Oyster Feast.

"It was a day to remember, not just for the magic, music and fantastic food, but for the wonderful spirit of unity that brought us all together in celebration of Colchester’s incredible heritage.

“It was an honour to welcome so many of our city’s community leaders, representatives from all of my chosen charities and our twin town Wetzler, Olympic bronze medal-winning boxer Lewis Richardson and, of course, the many generous guests who dug deep to support causes that mean so much to us all.

"Together, we raised a fantastic amount through the charity auction, which included some truly extraordinary prizes.

“This event once again proved how strong and compassionate Colchester’s community is, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we achieved.

"My heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated and helped make the event such a resounding success. Here’s to continuing our wonderful traditions and supporting the causes that make our city such a special place to live.”