Elvis Hau opened his Mr Hau restaurant in Terminus Road in 1988, and has seen its popularity grow over the years. In recent years two other businesses have been added to the group.

Regular customers were among those who filled the Assembly Room of the Town Hall for Sunday's celebration at which the Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Greg Szanto and his wife, Clare, and county council chairman Cllr Bob Lacey were principle guests.

Mr Hau has raised thousands of pounds for charities over the years, and the tradition was maintained on Sunday with the proceeds of the evening - £750 - going to Help the Aged.

Welcoming guests, Mr Hau - who during the evening gave a demonstration of noodle making - paid tribute to all who had helped in the success of his group, particularly his brother and sister in law, Elbert and Alice.

The Mayor told guests that Mr Hau's had become a 'fantastic institution', and he congratulated Elvis on creating 'something exceptional for Eastbourne'.

Jenny Gearing, manager of the Help the Aged shop in Green Street, spoke of her appreciation for Mr Hau's support. "Without such support we would not be able to work for those in need in Eastbourne," she added.

During the evening there was a demonstration of Thai dancing, and guests were able to purchase vegetables carved in the shape of flowers by chef John Wu.