"Section 17 Restaurant, Wathwood Hospital"

The aptly named restaurant Section 17 sits within Wathwood Hospital and is a venture built on the success of The Clink; a restaurant formed within HMP High Down.

I didn’t really know what to expect but what I received was outstanding. On entering the restaurant I was met by smiling faces; patients and staff working together. The waiters were all smartly dressed with crisp white shirts and black bow ties. The restaurant itself was beautifully laid out with smart table decorations and flowers. I sat on a table for four.

There was the choice of 3 or 4 starters, main courses and sweets. I chose the cream of vegetable soup the roast pork and the lemon posset. The food was promptly brought to the table and was presented as in any first class establishment; the flavours were superb. I was particularly impressed that many of the dishes were gluten free; I was therefore able to eat the shortbread that was presented with the lemon posset and they were delightful.

All in all what a wonderful luncheon cooked and served by a brilliant team of chefs and waiters. I am sure this venture will grow and provide excellent opportunities for the patients to develop their catering skills and qualifications.

Many thanks to all those involved; your hard work certainly paid off with all good wishes for the future of this venture.

Tim Wood Governor Ambassador to Wathwood.