WOODBRIDGE: A culinary connection which links two historic organisations in a Suffolk market town is being kept alive with food, drink and rock and roll.

WOODBRIDGE: A culinary connection which links two historic organisations in a Suffolk market town is being kept alive with food, drink and rock and roll.

In 1662, Robert Marryott hosted a feast for local dignitaries which started at the Crown Hotel in Woodbridge to raise money for the re-founding of Woodbridge School, which had lapsed during the difficult years of the Civil War.

Now that link is set to be renewed after the hotel agreed to sponsor the school's production of the hit musical Grease in the Seckford Theatre.

The Crown will also be overseeing the catering for a gala dinner on the final night of the production, which will feature more than 100 drama students aged 12 to 18.

Gemma Mayes, director of drama at Woodbridge School, said: “We are very grateful to The Crown for supporting this production.

“Our students already had a high level of singing and acting skills. Over the last two months the quality of their dance has been brought to the same high level.”

Stephen David, chef-patron at The Crown, added: “Our involvement demonstrates a modern way of linking our two organisations and our team will be ensuring our creative culinary talents match those of the students in the production.

“We are delighted to be working with Woodbridge School and will look forward to creating a high quality menu for the gala dinner.”