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from Lesley and Mike
January was much busier than usual for the time of year. The early good weather and continued
filming of Dr Who and Merlin at
Puzzle Wood
and
Clearwell Caves
even brought us guests from Canada.
Together with
Perrygrove Narrow Gauge Railway,
all three are within walking distance of us,
and have ‘wet weather ‘ areas and cafes.
In February the combined Ale Tasting and `ale influenced` light buffet was very enjoyable,
organised by Mike Huggett of
Cura Ales
An exciting development in the bar lounge is local artist Sarah King, exhibiting her
paintings,
specialising in scenes of the Royal Forest of Dean.
Royal wedding fever!
We decked out the hotel in red white and blue bunting and a flag, and a
William and Catherine’ banner.
Guests and friends celebrated here with a champagne buffet after watching the ceremony.
Menus
The introduction last summer of a choice of 3 home roasted meats with appropriate
gravies has proved a hit, especially with our Sunday Lunch guests.
Likewise the return of homemade traditional puddings -
the Blackcurrant and Bramley sponge pudding is challenging the suet Spotted Dick for most popular
dessert!
In the Garden
The kitchen garden is in full swing despite a slow start for the rhubarb and
raspberries (popular for breakfasts and deserts).
It continues to provide our own staple vegetables in season too.
The strawberries and redcurrants have come and gone all too quickly but the plums, pears,
eating apples and Bramleys are doing well and look to provide bumper crops.
The apricot tree continues to mature with fruit increasing in size and we are really hopeful
for next year!
The pond at the front of the building has had a long awaited cleanout!
5 newts, 5 fish, 1 frog and zillions of tadpoles temporarily vacated their home, while silt and
leaves were cleared, and lilies and flags planted to complete the work.
A small stone owl, discovered hidden in the depths, now resides safely by the plant pots at
the front of the hotel.
More news soon .......
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