Richard Bainbridge of Benedicts in Norwich was presented with the Outstanding Achievement Award, sponsored by Alliance East Anglia, recognising his decades long work putting East Anglia on the map for food and drink.

Richard Bainbridge has worked in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, including the three Michelin-starred Waterside Inn in Berkshire under the legendary Michel Roux.

After returning to Norfolk, Richard became head chef at the acclaimed Morston Hall and went on to become chef patron and co-founder of Benedicts in Norwich, building it into one of the region’s most celebrated restaurants.

Under his leadership, Benedicts has achieved three AA Rosettes, been named among both The Times Top 100 Restaurants and SquareMeal’s Top 100, and taken home Restaurant of the Year at the Norfolk Food & Drink Awards.

His talent reached a national audience when he won BBC Two’s Great British Menu in 2015, and his standing within the industry later saw him return to........

© Eastern Daily Press