For once, the challenge was one of “risotto with parmesan”, and of “paccheri” with cherry tomatoes and cuttlefish.

Leaving their problems of the last few days outside the hall, Roberto Maroni and Roberto Formigoni got down to work at the stoves, in the wonderful setting of the “Ville Ponti”, for a charity evening dedicated to flavour.

There were also Attilio Fontana, Paolo Cherubino, Walter Bergamaschi and many other famous names in the political and economic life of Varese, who put on the chef’s hat and apron.

The challenge was held, Masterchef-style, in the Andrea Hall.

The famous people agreed to become chefs and waiters for a special evening, organised by the Giacomo Ascoli Foundation, to collect funds for a motor vehicle for the young oncology patients of the Del Ponte Hospital.