After 50 incredible years with the ambulance service, Barry finally decided to trade in the blue lights for the golden years of retirement. He started saving lives at just 18, and now, five decades later, he’s swapping sirens for Storytime with his grandkids. But let’s be real—leaving a career you’ve poured your heart into is bittersweet. While Barry is excited for the future, he can’t help but feel a pang of sadness as he bids farewell to his work family.
Sensing this mix of emotions, Barry’s wife, Anne-Marie, decided to throw a retirement bash that would not only honour his amazing career but also celebrate the exciting new chapter ahead. She invited 130 of Barry’s closest friends, family members, and colleagues, turning their back garden into the ultimate party venue. With the sun shining and everyone in high spirits, it was set to be an unforgettable day.
Of course, no party is complete without a feast. But feeding 130 hungry partygoers is no small feat! So Anne-Marie did the smart thing—she called in Hog Roast Bearsted’s pro caterers! Known for our delicious food and wallet-friendly prices, we were thrilled to be chosen for this special event. We promised a feast that would knock everyone’s socks off—and boy, did we deliver!
Our catering manager, Chris, was up at the crack of dawn, preparing dishes from our Southern Slow Roast Menu that would make anyone’s mouth water. We’re talking Cajun-spiced whole roasted chickens, pulled minted lamb, and Texan 24-hour beef brisket—each one slow-cooked to juicy, tender perfection. For the vegan crowd, we whipped up some seriously delicious BBQ-pulled jackfruit rolls.
And the sides? Let’s just say they were the perfect wingmen to our main dishes. Hog Roast Bearsted served up creamy mac and cheese, sweet corn cobettes, and our legendary potato salad. Everything was laid out on bamboo wooden plates, adding a rustic touch to the garden party vibe. Guests could pile on the napkins, sauces, dips, and bread rolls to customise their plates just the way they liked.
As the food hit the tables, guests didn’t waste a second diving in. Barry, surrounded by his favourite people, was overwhelmed with gratitude. The day was filled with laughter, stories, and plenty of good food—a fitting tribute to a man who’s given so much to his community. Hog Roast Bearsted was proud to help make Barry’s send-off as memorable as his career and we wish him all the best with retirement.