The waiters’ race [Photos: Peter Clark Images]

HUNDREDS of people came out to enjoy the special community spirit of Soho with the 50th village fête.

The Belles of London City perform in St Anne’s churchyard

There was the traditional fun and frolics in Wardour Street including the spaghetti-eating contest, firefighters versus police tug of war and the event’s centrepiece, the waiters’ race.

Revd Simon Buckley with Soho’s ‘mini mayors’

Music came from local performers Clifford Slapper and Roxy Music’s Andy Mackay.

Firefighters win the tug of war

Stara from Mr Fogg’s Pawnbrokers and Stefan from Ham Yard Hotel won first prize in the women’s and men’s waiters’ race.

Pearl, Most Soho Dog first prize

The race has been a tradition at the Soho Village Fête since the 1950s where waiters balance a bottle of prosecco, glass, and ashtray on a waiter’s tray in a route which sees them race up Dean Street, around Soho Square, back down Frith Street and looping round Romilly Street to finish back at The French House.

Soho George

Other popular events included a snail race, dog show, and human fruit machine.

Kevin Davy White

Special guests of honour were television personality Gail Porter, singer Rachel D’Arcy, Westminster City Council leader Adam Hug and “Two Cities” Labour MP Rachel Blake.

Soho Parish Rock Band

Businesses donated food, raffle prizes, and drinks and the Soho Society’s Italian bar served 50 free shots of French 75 cocktails to celebrate the anniversary.