300 waiters run in National Waiters' Day Race

The event, founded by Galvin at Windows’ general manager Fred Sirieix in 2013,​​ was part of celebrations across the country which saw businesses recognise the work of front-of-house staff.

Turnout for the Hyde Park race was so high that organisers had to organise heats, with competitors completing a 150m dash while balancing a bottle of water on a tray.

Gigo Machitidze from The Cavendish London hotel was the fastest waiter, while The Pig – at Combe’s Charlotte Storey won fastest waitress.

The team from Foxes Academy were named best dressed, while the Academy’s William Wallace also won the fastest student prize.

The Hyde Park celebrations were led by Sirieix, who created National Waiters’ Day in a bid to raise the profile of front-of-house careers.

“To be celebrating our fifth year of National Waiters’ Day was a wonderful milestone!” says Siriex.

“It’s essential that we promote the ocean of career opportunities hospitality has to offer, celebrate the hard work of front of house professionals, and encourage more people to begin great careers in hospitality. With all the opportunities available, you can work hard and be rewarded with success – there has never been a more exciting time to join this special industry.”

National Waiters’ Day is now run in partnership with The Springboard Charity.