Since writing our July blog, Garden Cafe has been more a refuge from torrential rain for our customers than a chill-out space on the terrace. Let us cheer you up with the sun drenched landscapes on view in the Cafe until mid September. Painted by Bob Evens, an established Nottingham artist, they are all for sale at very good prices. We are still taking advantage of the last of the summer berries on our cakes and desserts, but watch out for peaches, nectarines and plums on our open fruit flans.
Some of you may be aware of the plan for an intensive pig farm to be set up in Colston Bassett. As residents we obviously have concerns about its impact on the village. At the Store we have always tried to stock organic or free range meat from known sources. Our bacon and sausages come from Redhill Farm near Gainsborough where the pigs are completely free range. Our eggs from Vera Oxby in Kinoulton are also free range and are used in all our cakes and quiches in the Cafe as well as sold in the Store. We also buy a small selection of organic meat and free range chickens from Stephen Morris in Loughborough which comes into the Store on Wednesday. Specific orders from customers need to be placed the weekend before. The demand for cheap food in the U.K. has resulted in animals being often reared in unacceptable conditions and prone to the diseases that intensive agriculture brings. The chickens at the Store may cost more than those in the supermarket but I would rather eat them less often and enjoy their superior flavour and texture. Why not try one?
Cards and jewellery are the star performers in our gift area. We are constantly bringing in new ranges and work hard to keep the prices accessible. Snap them up when you see them as we don't keep much stock. There is an 80's revival on trend for the Autumn and we hope to accessorize it with chunky pieces and plenty of bling! Children's party invitation and no present? Just arrived...beaded hearts, flower key rings, decorated hairbands. They might get you out of trouble!
Before you make the journey into West Bridgford or Nottingham, why not come and visit us. We may well have what you're looking for and save you time and petrol! As one customer said: "Where else can I buy a pack of free range sausages, a beautiful soap from Italy and a crystal necklace!"
See you soon.
