MORE than 1,200 people took the opportunity to experience the height of fine dining in Southampton.

Events in the Sky came to Southampton as its final destination of 2017, with restaurants and dessert parlours lining up to serve their menu on a portable kitchen and table that was attached to a crane and raised to 100 feet.

With 22 guests on each sitting, more than 1,200 food-lovers took part in an event which looks set to return to the city next year.

Having sold out over the initial four days, two extra days were added for the event that offered breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon flights, as well as cocktail events and a flight for Sprinkles Gelato.

Organiser of Events in the Sky, Dale Agar, said that Southampton was a ‘special city’ and they are aiming to come back next year.

Dale said: “We’ve had an incredible time in Southampton. Everything has been just right, from the weather to the reaction we’ve had.

“Our restaurant partners have all been amazing, and the meals they’ve been serving have been of the highest quality.

“Feeding more than 1,000 people in the sky is no mean feat, but the teams have all been brilliant and kept the spirits high in Southampton. It’s now a very special city for us and we’d like to come back next year.”

With nine flights every day for six days, and with added events put on for press and other guests, restaurants and bars served up treats to more than 1,200 guests.

Andrew Stembridge, managing director at Chewton Glen Hotel said: “Our team loved taking part in two days of flights, and we’ve had wonderful feedback on the meals served up in the sky.“It’s something totally different for us to do, and we’ve loved every minute of it.”

Spencer Bowman, managing director of Mettricks and Supermarine said: “As a team we’re passionate about our home city and it’s been a brilliant experience.”

Others taking part were Tapas Barcelona, The Jetty, Beresfords, Captain’s Club Hotel and Spa, Kuti’s Brasserie and Orange Rooms. The UK tour, in which Southampton was the final stop, also visited London, Glasgow, Newcastle and Bristol.