TWO thousand pounds was raised for Otley food bank with an event at Buon Apps River Lounge and Italian Restaurant.

The celebrating Tutti i Santi event was hosted by Buon Apps in association with Filippo Berio Oils and Yorkshire Pecorino Cheese to celebrate the end of the Italian olive harvest and production of the first batches of virgin olive oil.

Guests chose from a meat or a vegan menu, each offering six courses of freshly prepared, authentic Italian dishes, paired with wine and olive oil tasting. Classical guitarist Scott Robertson provided acoustic accompaniment to the evening. Walter Zanre, UK director of Filippo Berio shared the company’s history as one of the foremost Italian olive oil producers. Mario Olianas from Yorkshire Pecorino Cheese Ltd spoke about his specialist Italian cheeses made in Otley. Berkmann Wine Cellars supplied some of the wines. Guests were offered tasting samples from both producers and were given a gift-bag to take away.The event sold out within an hour of being announced.

All proceeds were donated to Otley Food Bank. A total of £2,000 was raised, including a £1,000 donation from Filippo Berio who are also giving the food bank 20 cases of pesto Sauce, 10 cases of penne rigate and 10 cases of chopped tomatoes.

Sofia Elena, from Buon Apps, said: “Huge thanks to all who bought tickets and of course to Walter Zanre and Mario Olianas for their participation and support. We’re delighted with the success of the event and the donation it’s been possible to give to Otley Food Bank which is a vital local resource.”