DINNER guests enjoyed a Rugby World Cup-inspired three-course menu in Swindon this week, but it was not at any old town centre eatery.

Oakfield Project, an alternative education provider in Marlowe Avenue, hosted its annual Come Dine with Oakfield event on Tuesday and invited a stellar list of Swindon’s great and good.

Year 10 pupils, aged 14 and 15, served up an exotic mix of dishes from the likes of Uruguay, Tonga and Canada, which they had researched, planned delivered themselves.

Guests, including Mayor Andrew Bennett, Dorcan Academy headteacher Dr Scott Sissons and Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix members, were also shown around the project ahead of their meal.

With flags of the competing nations and personalised place mates in the project’s studio, guests were also served by the pupils behind the event, who acted as waiters and chefs.

Kim Tupper, Oakfield Project’s headteacher, said Dr Sissons told her the food was so good it was better than previous experience he had had in restaurants.

Guests did not get their food free however, with £15 charged per head and a raffle also contributing to a fundraising pot just over £100, which will go to Great Western Hospital’s children’s unit.

“The guests said it was absolutely fabulous. It’s the best Come Dine with Oakfield we’ve ever had,” said Ms Tupper.

She put this down to the timing of the event, which has taken place in Easter in the past, during the hectic exam period.