Editor's Blog

Vanilla Parties launch

Went to a great party in Ascot on Friday night. It was the launch of Vanilla Parties, the new outside catering venture owned by Nigel Lewis of butchery fame. (Prince Andrew is a huge fan of his sausages.)  Champagne flowed freely and so did the delightful canapes. The Cocktail Wizards entertained with their shakers - they'd learned their trick from Tom Cruise obviously - and a magician mingled in amongst the 200 plus guests.

Caught up with lots of friends including Michelle Cockayne - formerly Lineaker - who looked stunning as ever, Devorah Jacobs from Scene Living in Sunninghill, art gallery owner Alan Klukow, Judith Edwards and Sean Kyne to name a few.  

It's a brave move opening such a company in the middle of recession, but if anywhere can withstand the economic downturn it's the Ascot area, which doesn't seem to be affected much at all judging by the fact that all the restaurants and shops are still thriving. Long may it continue!

The joys of spring - Lambing weekend at Rushall farm

I took Sophie and two of her friends to Rushall Organic farm near Bradfield this weekend and was amazed by the number of people out enjoying the spring sunshine. Rushall is not normally open to the public but this weekend and next weekend it open its farm gates so that you can see lambs being born, frogs skating across the pond and enjoy a tractor ride across some lovely countryisde. A good, old-fashioned day out, with tasty snacks being served in a huge, renovated barn. 

We'll be back for the bluebell walks next month, too. 

New Food Festival launched

When it comes to promoting its local food producers it seems to me that Berkshire has always lagged behind a bit. To the west we all know and love Cotswold cheese, lamb and other gorgeous sundries and over the past five years Hampshire Fare has done a wonderful job celebrating farmers markets and making sure that everyone knows about local producers. But while Antony Worrall Thompson has certainly done his bit to promote the cause closer to home,  we've still got a long way to catch up with our near neighbours on teh local food front.

That's whhy I was so pleased to be asked to speak at the launch of the Local Flavours Festival to be held in September. It's the first of its kind to involve the three counties of Berks, Bucks and Oxon and it will open people's eyes to the wonderful products we have in our midst. It's being promoted at May's Henley Food Festival - another great success - and it's something that ought to take off. So look out in September for participating restaurants, pubs, delis etc. and you'll be surprised - and delighted - by what's on offer. 

Heston Blumethal and the Fat Duck

I feel extremely sorry for Heston. Over the years, I have met and interviewed him several times and he has always been charming and helpful. He's an incredibly down to earth person and there isn't a hint of arrogance about him - unlike some other celebrity chefs I've met. So I was very saddened to read of his current difficulties.I have been behind the scenes at his Bray establishments and can assure you that everything was spotless on my visits.The fact that there have been no obvious causes to indicate why so many people have complained of feeling unwell points to the fact that his premises are extremely well kept.

I wish him well and would encourage anyone who has ever enjoyed a meal at the Fat Duck or Hind's Head to do the same.