Sunday 30 August 2009

Dickinson & Morris

Pies return this week: the tried and tested Dickinson & Morris, Melton Mowbray pies last tasted on the 6th April, last year. Reedham was to be the location to verify the pies past credentials. We parked in the car park of the recreation ground. From here, fourteen of us set off west and slightly northwards to Limpenhoe Common, along very minor roads. From here we headed south west along a track, squeezing past a farmer’s truck and trailer being used to unload livestock, to cross the railway line. Shortly after this, Josie spotted a small Grass Snake wriggling off ahead of her. On reaching the river we followed it’s northern bank on its meandering path east, pausing for lunch by Limpenhoe Drainage Mill at about 3½ miles. Sandwiches consumed, Elena distributed plums for dessert, then the mill was inspected internally, by those interested. Continuing along the river bank to the ferry, we found that our way was blocked, so a short diversion along Ferry Road to the Railway Station, and back to the Lord Nelson and the excellent first Reedham Riverside Beer Festival. Various beers provided liquid refreshment, before we made our way north and back to the cars. Smoked Salmon Crescents provided the first course before the pies were cut. Slicing the dull pie crust revealed a pinker than expected, coarse meat filling encased in a small amount of jelly. The filling, well peppered was pleasant, especially with the addition of mustard made up for the rather lardy crust. The munchers agreed giving the pies a spot on 7.5 with a standard deviation of 0.60302. Don then provided us with a portion of Bleu de Gex cheese to be sampled on Oatcakes. This was a powerful portion of cheese! Finally there was Shortbread for those that had room. Now it was time to have a go on the play equipment.