Change of scene for Felixstowe cuisine

IT could be a case of Changing Mush-rooms for one Felixstowe company after they were awarded a mouth watering catering contract.

Diana Barnard Catering have landed the contract to provide the cuisine for the cast and crew of the hit TV series Changing Rooms.

The outside catering specialists, who are based in Orwell Road, Felixstowe, have been in the catering business for more than 25 years and said they got the job by word of mouth – or even taste.

"Last year we did some catering for another programme and the producer remembered us and got in touch with us when he joined the Changing Rooms production team.

"We have agreed to do a total of 20 programmes and so far we have done three.

"It has added a bit of spice to our regular routine and given us a bit of variety to the usual weddings and balls," said Christopher Barnard.

Winning the prestigious contract has taken the family run business all around the country including Weston Supermare, Manchester and their next job takes them South to Barnstaple in North Devon.

"It's quite strange hitching up the wagon and setting off on the gravy train and hitting the road but we really do enjoy it.

"Carol Smilie and Handy Andy are good company and we have a laugh with them and get on well."

Among the delicacies served up to the like of Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen at mid morning include croissants filled with cheese and bacon, homemade flapjacks and endless amounts of tea and coffee.

For the main meal at lunchtime the menu comprises of four hot dishes, two cold options and a vegetarian dish and a variety of tempting puddings.

"Everyone complains that we feed them too much but some people manage to be very controlled," added Mr Barnard.

For each programme, Diana Barnard Catering sends two employees which sees them on location for three days at a time.