Hi everyone, bad news I'm afraid. A close friend in deepest Norfolk died last week after a long illness. We had expected the funeral to be later in the month, but have just learned that it is on Monday 8th December. Because of the distance we will have to drive down on the Sunday and stay overnight. So no George Starkey meet for us this year. I am devastated not to get to see everyone, particularly in Patterdale my favourite bit of the Lakes. Also I will not be able to bring the spicy Moroccan soup I promised to make. Sorry about this but please have a great time! Bernie.