My post-lockdown first night dining experience

My post-lockdown first night dining experience

FIFTEEN weeks after being plunged into lockdown, one of the biggest freedoms we’ve been denied was this weekend re-gifted to us – and I wasted no time in taking advantage.

Whilst good food and drink have not been in short supply over recent months (my waistline will sadly vouch for that!), it’s the social setting and convivial atmosphere of the pub and restaurant experience that I’ve missed most.

The Globe, Tasca Dali, COVID-19, lockdown, restaurants, pubs, dining

So, upon receiving an email invitation to book a table at one of my favourite local hostelries, there was no hesitation.

It was only on the lead up to our visit on Saturday night however, I started to question my (usually very sound) judgement. Social media – and headlines – were piling on the pressure to ‘stay at home.’ We were constantly reminded of ‘second spikes’ and ‘local lockdowns’ were very much in the news.

Was I being irresponsible in taking the family to step out into this brave – and as yet untested – new world? Should I, like most in my social circles, steer clear for a while longer to observe how things ‘pan out?’

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t tempted to cancel on more than one occasion last week. The overthinking mum and the logical fact-driven journalist were at odds.

But the favourably low local COVID statistics added much-needed perspective.

And as a PR professional who works with many small local businesses, I also felt compelled to lend them my support.

I had witnessed first-hand their struggles for survival throughout lockdown and had long told myself that the moment I could do my bit to help get their tills ringing again, I would.

And after all, I reasoned, my family were due some celebrations in lieu of three birthdays, a significant wedding anniversary, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day and other assorted milestones. So, suitably reconciled, off we headed to The Globe in Warwick.

The restaurant, in Theatre Street, was very much in the spotlight for its ‘first night’ audience.

On researching their COVID-Security measures, I was satisfied this chic gastropub, part of the Oakman Inns stable, had customers’ safety at heart. These included restricted numbers, discrete screens between some tables, disposable menus, cutlery brought to the table, signs to keep traffic flowing one way, an abundance of hand sanitiser and the option of at-table ordering via an app.

Would this infringe on the restaurant dining experience I’d so sorely missed? Would first impressions of the ‘new normal’ have us rushing back for a repeat performance or re-joining the more cautious supporters of stay at home? After all, a meal for four at your average south Warwickshire gastropub comes at a not-insignificant price. Would it still be a price we were willing to pay?

The Globe, Tasca Dali, COVID-19, lockdown, restaurants, pubs, dining
Discrete screens have been added to booth seating

I am delighted – and relieved – to report that, for us at least, the answer is yes. The overall dining experience was not that dissimilar to that of pre-lockdown. Considering this was reopening night, the team at The Globe handled their new regime with reassuring confidence and calm. Their genuine delight at being back on the front line of hospitality was clear to see. The servers we spoke to have missed the buzz of their restaurants as much as we have.

I was surprised to find a lack of face masks however. Whilst only optional for serving staff, it struck me that this may have offered an increased level of reassurance among more nervous diners, especially when they leaned over to collect plates and glasses from the table.

All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed our long-anticipated family meal out and am pleased I didn’t talk myself into succumbing to that last-minute cancellation. In fact, buoyed on by this, we are heading out again next weekend, this time to Tasca Dali in High Street.

I am particularly pleased to support Tasca which has been much missed in the town. But it was a close call for this award-winning – but famously compact – Spanish restaurant which narrowly avoided hanging up the closed sign for good thanks to a recent change in the 2m distancing rule.

The restaurant can now accommodate double the number of diners than planned – although full capacity will still see a third fewer customers catered for on their busiest nights. There are still struggles ahead.

Whichever pub, restaurant or café you’re most looking forward to again frequenting, for that peace of mind it’s worth first checking up on their safety measures.

The Globe, Tasca Dali, COVID-19, lockdown, restaurants, pubs, dining
Signs and sanitiser are going to become familiar sights.

Make sure they are accredited as COVID-Secure and plan ahead such as downloading their apps. And don’t be shy to contact them with questions in advance of your booking. Businesses will be sympathetic to your nervousness to return through their doors and will work with you to offer as much reassurance as possible.

Many also offer outdoor dining which – on the finer days – can be a great compromise for those not ready to yet take the leap across their thresholds.

We are so lucky in south Warwickshire, to be surrounded by a fine choice of eateries and drinking holes and I, for one, am looking forward to reacquainting myself with most of them over the coming weeks and months.

Whilst I am clearly no scientist – and there is no such thing as zero risk – I am reassured that, if you choose wisely and follow the measures and advice in place, it is possible to once again enjoy our favourite restaurants and pubs safely, whilst also doing our bit to reignite the local economy.

Now I’ll definitely drink to that!

The Globe: www.theglobewarwick.co.uk

Tasca Dali: www.tascadali.com

Satisfying our appetites – until ‘normal’ service resumes (Review)

Satisfying our appetites – until ‘normal’ service resumes (Review)

AS we all come to terms with a new ‘normal,’ one of life’s treats we’re missing most is dining out at our favourite restaurants.

While hospitality businesses across the country are busily preparing to re-open their doors with appropriate COVID-19 safety measures in place, many are working hard to bring as much of the experience as possible into our homes instead.

My much-loved local of 20 years, The Hatton Arms is among them.

Hatton Arms, COVID-19, lockdown, deliveries, takeaways, review

This popular country pub on the edge of Warwick was sadly forced to hang up the closed sign soon after a much-trumpeted refurbishment and relaunch in February.

Four months on and now gradually re-emerging from lockdown, the Hatton Arms is still managing to hold firm to its principles of locally sourced fresh seasonal ingredients, with its recent unveiling of a reduced down version of the pub’s new lunch and dinner menus.

With hubby’s birthday at the weekend, I decided it was a good opportunity to put their meal delivery service to the test, so, with 24 hours’ notice, we booked a time slot and put in our food orders via email.

Delivery was very prompt and the food arrived piping hot.

Hatton Arms, COVID-19, deliveries, takeaways, review, Warwick

While more limited menu, the menu has been carefully considered to include a little something for all tastes, from pies and burgers to fish and chips and ribs and even Classic Caesar Salad. Vegetarians are also catered for

We took advantage of the keenly priced Burger Bundle – any two burgers and two desserts for £24.95, opting for the Double Stack BBQ Burger (double stacked chargrilled chuck steak burger with mature cheddar, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, dill pickle and BBQ sauce on a ciabatta bun) and the Double Stack Buttermilk Chicken Burger (double stacked buttermilk chicken breast, mature cheddar, lettuce, tomato, dill pickle, garlic mayo and Hatton hot sauce on a ciabatta bun).

Other members of the family chose Fish and Chips (beer-battered haddock, chips, mushy peas and tartar sauce) and a dish called ‘BBQ Heaven.’

Hatton Arms, COVID-19, takeaways, deliveries, Warwick, review
Double Stack BBQ Burger

All were given a big thumbs up, although a word of warning about BBQ Heaven. With five lemon and thyme chicken wings, buttermilk chicken, rack of BBQ pork ribs and skinny fries, this meal is not one for the faint-hearted. In hindsight this could stretch to two people and, while at £19.95, it is the menu’s most expensive option, it actually represents excellent value.

Keep an eye on their Facebook page too for specials.

A small but tantalisingly tempting selection of desserts – chocolate brownie, white chocolate and strawberry cheesecake, fruit crumble or mini cinnamon doughnuts with chocolate dipping sauce – are all generous is portion size. From personal experience I can say the fruit crumble is among the tastiest I’ve had. (And I like to think of myself as a crumble aficionado I’ve indulged in that many!)

All in all we were agreed, this was a very satisfying birthday banquet. Now we’re eyeing up the mouth-watering Sunday Roasts for another weekend. I’ve read positive reviews about these too!

This country pub has established a reputation among locals and visitors for authentic dining and classic British cuisine made with the finest ingredients, often sourced direct from the Hatton Estate.

It is also known for its beautiful sweeping views of the idyllic Hatton Locks. And Hatton Walks has now been re-opened at weekends for guests of the Hatton Arms to enjoy from 9am onwards.

Double Stack BBQ Burger

There are three different circular walking routes that take in the Grand Union Canal, local public footpaths and some beautiful private paths across the Hatton Estate to Hatton Country World. Free walks guides are available to download online by searching for ‘Hatton Walks Warwick.’

While the team has been busy managing social distancing and limiting visitor numbers as well as tidying up litter from the canal towpath, manager Stephanie Ward is also keen that customers consuming their Hatton Arms breakfast baps and coffees, follow the countryside code when visiting the Hatton Locks area. Extra bins have also been provided to help with this.

She said: “We are desperately missing our loyal customers and can’t wait to be able to welcome you back inside our doors again soon. We are awaiting further guidance from the Government on when this can happen.

“In the meantime we’re delighted to be able to continue serving our menu and wish to thank everyone for their invaluable support.”

Hatton Arms, COVID-19, takeaways, deliveries, Hatton, review, Stephanie Ward
Stephanie Ward

Takeaways can be available for collection or delivery between 3-8pm on Fridays, 12 noon-8pm on Saturdays and 12 noon-6pm on Sundays. The full menu can be found at: https://hattonarms.com/takeaway-order-form/ Same day orders can be made from midday by calling 01926 492427. Pre-orders can be made by emailing enquiries@hattonarms.com

Generally speaking, while restaurant food deliveries are a deliciously welcome distraction from our own kitchens, I think we’d all agree they are no real alternative to the authentidc dining out experience. But keep supporting them so we can one day (soon) be back to enjoying the original mine host hospitality in a form that we know and love.

Unique NHS bench goes under the hammer for children’s charity

Unique NHS bench goes under the hammer for children’s charity

A one-of-a-kind copper bench is being auctioned off to raise funds for a Warwick charity for children with terminal and life-limiting illnesses thanks to the generosity of a Solihull couple.

The bench, which bears the topical message: ‘2020 Love NHS’ was crafted from copper piping by plumbing firm Rudkin & Herbert in Leicester and bought for £2,000 by Simon and Lorraine Cave, from Solihull.

Molly Olly's Wishes, Rudkin & Herbert, COVID-19, NHS, plumbers, fundraising

The couple donated the proceeds to Leicester’s Loros Hospice and Cancer Research before then regifting the bench to Molly Olly’s Wishes, a charity which was established in 2011 following the death of Rachel and Tim Ollerenshaw’s eight-year-old daughter Molly from a rare kidney cancer.

The Hatton-based charity works to support children with terminal or life-limiting illnesses and their families and help with their emotional wellbeing as well as grant wishes and donate therapeutic toys and books to both children directly and to hospitals throughout the UK.

Mascot of Molly Olly’s Wishes is a therapeutic toy lion called Olly The Brave who has his own Hickman line and a detachable mane which helps to explain and normalise the effects of chemotherapy. These form part of an Olly The Brave pack that has now been handed out to more than 40 hospitals, along with a book from the charity’s exclusive Olly The Brave series.

The donation will come at a critical time for Molly Olly’s which, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is forecast to lose around £250k in fundraising this year.

Simon Cave said he became familiar with the charity after moving to Solihull with his wife Lorraine more than 20 years ago.

He said: “I wanted to donate some money to Loros but I’ve been involved in some of Molly Olly’s fundraising events for a few years now and I think it is a great cause that’s long been close to our hearts. We’re also aware how much charities are suffering at the moment.”

Molly Olly's Wishes, COVID-19, copper bench, fundraising
Ian Herbert of Rudkin & Herbert with the bench and, inset, Simon and Lorraine Cave.

Bids can be placed on the bench by texting BID to 07747 854914 with the amount, your name and preferred form of contact. (Delivery to UK address only.) The successful highest bidder will be announced on June 15th, which marks the ninth anniversary of Molly’s death.

Ian Herbert, director of Rudkin & Herbert, where a heating engineer spent a day making the bench from copper piping, said: “We felt this was the least we could do and wanted to show our appreciation for what the NHS are doing under the current circumstances. Also, my daughter has recently become an ambulance driver so it is very close to home.

But he added: “It’s not just the NHS that need our help and donations, there are hundreds of smaller worthwhile charities in our communities that need our help and donations now. Every donation helps, whether big or small.”

Molly Olly's Wishes
Rachel Ollerenshaw

The charity’s founder Rachel Ollerenshaw said: “Molly Olly’s Wishes are very grateful to the team at Rudkin and Herbert and Simon and Lorraine Cave for donating this unique bench to the charity to help raise funds. It is certainly a piece that is symbolic of these extraordinary times and recognises the amazing work of the NHS.

“We hope to get lots of interest and the highest bidder will be the new owner and in the process will have helped make a difference to the lives of children with life-threatening illnesses. “

Further information about Molly Olly’s Wishes or how to donate can be found at: www.mollyolly.co.uk

Warwick Castle reopens its gates this weekend

Warwick Castle reopens its gates this weekend

WARWICK Castle will be amongst the first UK attractions to reopen its gates to the public following easing of lockdown restrictions.

Warwick Castle, COVID-19

While indoor areas remain off-limits for the time being, the extensive grounds and gardens around the iconic Castle will provide a welcome destination for visitors keen to take a day trip away from home.

From Saturday 6th June, guests will be able to explore over 64 acres of stunning ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped gardens, including riverside strolls along the Avon and the famous Peacock Garden with its resident flock of over 20 peacocks.

More adventurous visitors can climb the Conqueror’s Fortress, which is the highest point of the estate, to capture incredible views across the beautiful Midlands countryside and Warwick itself.

Whilst the usual shows and indoor attractions aren’t reopening just yet, the castle’s renowned birds of prey will still be undertaking their daily exercise and training for the full reopening,  so visitors may be lucky enough to see them whilst on site.

COVID-secure processes in place

A number of key processes have been implemented to ensure visitor safety including:

  • Increased health and safety procedures for enhanced cleaning of all areas including toilets and seating, introduction of one-way systems supported by clear wayfinding, social distancing markers and sanitiser stations
  • Entry will be dependent on advance online booking only, with availability subject to new daily maximum capacities to ensure allowance for social distancing. Temperature spot-checks may be carried out.
  • Contactless payment for food and drink, from takeaway outlets offering snacks, hot and cold drinks and ice cream
  • Activity kits on sale for families to find all the fun while exploring the outside areas
  • Toilets will be available to guests on a one-in-one-out basis.

Warwick Castle, COVID-19

‘Baby steps’ to full reopening

As part of global leisure company Merlin Entertainments, the castle has benefited from advice from colleagues across the globe, including those in countries where restrictions have already eased allowing attractions to reopen, on how best to reopen in line with new safety requirements ensuring the safety of all visitors.

Warwick Castle initially closed on 21st March 2020 along with tourism businesses across the UK.

Warwick Castle, COVID-19

Divisional Director Nick Blofeld said: “After ten weeks of closure, we can’t wait to reopen our gates and share the beauty of the Castle’s outdoor spaces with guests again. Warwick Castle uniquely offers a rich history and over 60 acres of rolling grounds, we are anticipating our loyal guests across the Midlands and beyond will be really excited to return to the Castle and have a taste of normality, even if it is two swords apart.”

We are delighted to be amongst the first attractions able to reopen to the public, albeit on a limited basis for the time being. These first ‘baby steps’ are a really positive sign for us, the wider industry and indeed the general public and we can now start to rediscover everything that this country has to offer.”

Opening exclusively for the first weekend on 6th and 7th June to Warwick Annual Pass and Merlin Annual Pass holders only, the castle grounds will be open to all guests from 8th June onwards on a pre-booked only basis. Visit: www.warwick-castle.com

Children’s charity refused COVID emergency cash

Children’s charity refused COVID emergency cash

THE founder of a Warwick charity for children with terminal and life-limiting illnesses is appealing for vital support after missing out on emergency cash to ease the impact of the pandemic to the tune of £250,000.

Many charitable organisations are learning they don’t qualify for grants due to a number of loopholes despite applications for smaller charity grants opening.

Molly Olly’s Wishes was established in 2011 following the death of Rachel and Tim Ollerenshaw’s eight-year-old daughter Molly from a rare kidney cancer.

The Hatton Park-based charity helps with the emotional wellbeing of the children and their families as well as granting wishes and donating therapeutic toys and books to both children directly and to hospitals throughout the UK.

Rachel and Tim Ollerenshaw with the familiar Molly Olly’s pink van.

It is forecast up to £250,000 in proceeds will be lost to their coffers with fundraising events wiped from the calendar due to COVID-19 for the foreseeable future, including the charity’s biggest event of the year, the Molly Olly Ball, in November.

Last month Chancellor Rishi Sunak unveiled a UK COVID-19 support package worth £750m, including a dedicated £370m for small local charities.

In a live speech to the nation, Mr Sunak said: “Some charities provide critical services to support the vulnerable people and communities. For them, shutting up shop at this moment would be to contravene their very purpose, their entire reason to exist. Those charities have never been more needed than they are now and they’ve never faced such a sudden fall in their funding.

“Some £370m of the funding will support small local charities working with vulnerable people. We all know who they are, those small charities in our village, our market towns, in pockets of our cities, the unsung heroes looking after the vulnerable and holding together our social fabric.

Despite struggling to qualify for the cash lifeline, Molly Olly’s founder Rachel Ollerenshaw says the work to provide vital support must continue.

Molly Olly's Wishes, Rachel Ollerenshaw

She said: “Children and families need our support now more than ever. The wishes that the charity grants, the consultant based at Birmingham Children’s Hospital that the charity funds, the Olly The Brave packs distributed to hospitals across the UK – all have a significant positive impact for the children and their families.

“Organisations such as the local children’s community nursing team have turned to us through the pandemic for help connecting with families and a new webpage has been designed by them which will be hosted by Molly Olly’s.

“The work of Molly Olly’s is considered to be relevant and significant by the health professionals and individuals for supporting children with life-threatening illnesses and needs to be maintained.

“Large and small charities work together to improve the lives of children and the virus does not make these children any less vulnerable.”

She added: “Sometimes the work of smaller charities can be overlooked and thought to be less significant. However, from our experience and knowing the work that other small charities do, our belief is that we are all part of a larger jigsaw here to help support vulnerable children through extremely challenging times.”

Having gained its charity status in 2012, Molly Olly’s has so far helped more than 2,000 children from new-born to age 18 by granting individual wishes. They may take the form of equipment to help a child live day to day with their condition; an alternative therapy treatment to complement traditional medicine, or even a special occasion or day out.

Molly Ollerenshaw, Molly Olly's Wishes

Mascot of the charity is a therapeutic toy lion called Olly The Brave who has his own Hickman line and a detachable mane which helps to explain and normalise the effects of chemotherapy. These form part of an Olly The Brave pack that has now been handed out to more than 40 hospitals, along with a book from the charity’s exclusive Olly The Brave series.

Some 30 children a week in the UK are given a cancer diagnosis, and more are told that they have a life-threatening or terminal illness in one form or another. Many of these, especially those diagnosed with leukaemia will be under five years old.

 

Matt Western MP
Matt Western MP

Warwick MP Matt Western is taking up the charity’s case. He said this week: ‘‘I’m deeply disappointed that local charity Molly Olly’s has been denied Government support, given all that they do to help children with terminal and life-limiting illnesses, and their families.’

“There are many amazing charities in Warwick and Leamington that work tirelessly year-round to help residents in need of support, and many have gone above and beyond during this crisis. But to continue this work, charities are in urgent need of financial assistance. I am urging the Government to step up and provide a comprehensive support package to the sector, so that charities like Molly Olly’s don’t fall through the cracks.”

Rachel Ollerenshaw added: “These remain worrying and uncertain times and we need, more than ever, to pull together and support the most vulnerable. If everyone reading this made a small donation it could make a big difference.”

Further information about Molly Olly’s Wishes or details of how to donate can be found at: www.mollyolly.co.uk or contact Rachel on 07747 854914.

Read a case study for Molly Olly’s Wishes here.