A PERIOD dinner attended by actors playing Titanic crew members will be held during a food festival in Eastleigh borough.

Guests are invited to dress as if they had been passengers - whether first class or steerage - for a lavish meal at the Botley Park Hotel, Boorley Green.

They will be regaled by characters from the ship such as White Star's local manager, Mr Curry, who will welcome guests on board with a description of sights on the ship from the Caf Parisien restaurant and promenade deck to the amazing Turkish bath with connecting cooling room.

Mr Curry co-ordinated messages from survivors and news as it came in on April 15, 1912.

Later in the evening Second Officer Lightoller, from Netley - the highest-ranking officer to survive - will recall the moment the iceberg was spotted and the ensuing panic.

The meal - based on original menus served on Titanic - is part of the Hamble Valley Food Festival, which is a celebration of local food and drink.

Ingredients will be bought from Hampshire suppliers and Southampton drama group Sarah Siddons Fan Club will play the characters.

The dinner willl be held on Thursday, July 3 during the food festival that runs from June 28 to July 6. For more information about tickets and to order a free festival programme call 0906 682 2001.

- Originally published April 2003.