Diary dates...
What's going on in May
May Day bank holiday
7 May
Think extra staff and extra stock for this traditionally busy weekend. You could even have a maypole in the garden and cook up some old English treats. Why not make life easier and run a "combat menu", a small selection of dishes that can be simply prepared and got out quickly. See toweroflondontour.com/recipes for some interesting ideas.
Henley Food Festival
11-12 May
Pub chefs performing culinary demos include Tom Kerridge, Mike Robinson, Paul Clerehugh and Mike North. For more info, see www.henleyfoodfestival.co.uk.
British Sandwich Week
13-20 May
The British Sandwich Association organises a whole week to celebrate sandwiches. See www.sandwich.org.uk for more details.
National Vegetarian Week
21-27 May
Even meat eaters turn green in the summer months so stock up on veggie treats. See www.vegsoc.org for news and ideas.
National BBQ week
28 May-3 June
This year's theme is Gastro Alfresco, described as the
sophisticated evolution of BBQing. For information and tips, including eating and entertaining alfresco, recipes and advice, visit www.nationalbbq.co.uk.
PubChef Battle of the Barbecues competition
30 May
Are you licensed to grill? The challenge to find Britain's best pub barbecue team will come to a head at the Royal Oak in King's Bromley, Staffordshire. See the June issue for the winners.
Coming up in June
Fathers' Day
17 June
Dads will be expecting to get taken out on their big day, so make sure you are geared up. Barbecues are always a hit with the men, get plenty of red meat on the menu, and check for TV sports
