Register now for the nation's most extraordinary dinner

Drawing on the nineteenth century fashion for organising feasts in outlandish locations, among them the Rotherhithe Tunnel, the top of Nelson’s column and the belly of the iguanodon at Crystal Palace, the Victorian Society is appealing to people around the country to join in its celebrations by holding a simultaneous competitive dinner and toast in the week of the 25 February 2008, the date of the first meeting of the Society back in 1958. Prizes will be awarded for the best menu and best location, and tips and Mrs Beeton’s menu suggestions will be available from the Victorian Society’s website before the event.

‘This is a chance for all those value heritage to celebrate in style,’ said Dr Ian Dungavell, Director of the Victorian Society. ‘When Betjeman and Pevsner founded the Society back in 1958, their aim was to broaden the understanding of Victorian and Edwardian architecture so that fewer of our best buildings might be lost. It’s amazing to think how far we’ve come. Now, with Eurostar trains whizzing in and out of the newly restored St Pancras and the great Victorian city of Liverpool named as European City of Culture for 2008, there’s a lot to be proud of. We hope many people will join us in raising a glass to campaigners around the country who make sure that the best of the past will be with us for many years to come.’

For more information about the Simultaneous Competitive Dinner or to register to take part, please download the entry form and information sheets beside this article and email (community@victoriansociety.org.uk) or post (1 Priory Gardens, London W4 1TT) your entry form to us by Monday 18th February.