What an unforgettable day it was at Reading School as the entire community came together to celebrate an incredible milestone — the school’s 900th anniversary. With 1,500 guests in attendance and a full day of food and festivities ahead, Hog Roast Reading was proud to provide the catering for this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.
Catering Managers Rik and Shaun led the team, serving up our signature Alfresco Menu across a stunning seven-hour celebration, from 2pm to 9pm.
Guests were welcomed with a beautifully presented antipasti grazing table, brimming with continental charm — fine Italian cured meats like prosciutto, Parma ham, and salami were paired with cheeses such as buffalo mozzarella, Parmigiano, and Gorgonzola. Artisan breads including herby focaccia, ciabatta, and breadsticks were laid out for dipping into extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It made for the perfect relaxed, help-yourself starter before the main event.
From there, it was time for the feast. The centrepiece? A whole roasted free-range pig, slow-cooked to perfection and served with all the classics: homemade sage and onion stuffing, golden apple sauce, and our signature crunchy crackling. For variety, we also served succulent halal chicken thighs, freshly grilled and full of flavour.
We didn’t forget about our veggie and vegan guests — they had the choice of grilled vegetable and halloumi skewers (minus the halloumi for the vegans), served with wraps, tzatziki, and sweet chilli sauce, or our beloved vegan pulled jackfruit, slow-cooked in smoky hickory BBQ sauce and topped with crunchy slaw.
To round out the meal, there was a colourful spread of fresh salads, including heritage tomato with buffalo mozzarella, mixed seasonal leaves, and homemade gourmet coleslaw, alongside two potato options: roasted new potatoes and classic fries.
And of course, no celebration would be complete without dessert. Guests chose from chocolate torte, tarte au citron, or a rich and creamy cheesecake — the perfect sweet finish to a day full of joy, history, and incredible food.
What a way to honour 900 years. Hog Roast Reading was thrilled to be a part of it.
