AN oyster feast which allows the elderly and vulnerable to celebrate went down a storm with all involved.

The After Oyster Feast ran after its prestigious namesake but instead of the glitz and glamour in the Town Halls, attendees enjoyed a slap-up meal of fish and chips.

Colchester mayor Tim Young also made the pioneering move of attending both events which, before this year, clashed.

The event held at Colchester Arts Centre on October 28 consisted of music, a raffle, bingo and performances from Black Elvis and poet and performer John Hegley.

Mr Young said: “It was one of my ambitions when I was elected as mayor of Colchester to attend both the oyster feast and the alternative.

“They are usually held on the same day at the same time it would have been impossible to be in two places at once.”

He continued: “It was an absolutely fantastic event in a setting where it has never been held before.

“The people had a great time and enjoyed some wonderful fish and chips.

“Some of the guests said it was the best alternative oyster feast they had ever attended.”

The feast, which took place between noon and 3pm saw elderly people with links to Labour, Trade Union and Co-operative movements invited along.

“We owe that generation a lot and if we can give something back to them for free then that is the least we can do,” added Mr Young.

“It is important to continue to recognise their contribution to our lives.”