We usually dine at restaurants or public houses located in Burnham itself or within a radius of fifteen miles around. Suggestions on places to eat come from our members who have already sampled the cuisine in the relevant establishments, or places the group choose to revisit.

The lunches are very informal, with a great deal of banter between members, laughter being the main ingredient of the occasion. The choice of meal at the luncheons depends entirely on what the individual member wishes to pay, or their particular appetite. Whether people want just soup and a roll, a baguette, a salad, or a two or three course meal, it is all perfectly acceptable.

We gather at the chosen venue by 12.30 and then the food can be served no later than 1.00pm. Some of the members like to partake of a desert or coffee, but members are free to depart as and when they wish. The stragglers usually have dispersed by 2 to 2.30.

With such high numbers, and to assist the host venue, we obtain copies of the menu in advance. Each member chooses a meal. A full list is then collated showing the individuals and the meals they are having. A few days prior to the date of the meal, a copy is passed to the host. This has proved the best way of getting all the meals served within a short time of each other, thus adding further amusement and discussion on any particular member’s choice.

The group has in the last couple of years undergone a dramatic increase in numbers. When I first joined the group, it numbered about 10, now the number stands at 38. If the full complement attends, it restricts us somewhat to the venues that can accommodate this number. Sadly this makes it difficult to expand any further, although we currently have a small reserve list of four members waiting to join us. This could be the ideal opportunity for someone to initiate a second group.

By changing venues we have built up a fair knowledge of the places to revisit, and those who will not see us again. Thus we are (and have been) able, to advise other groups or individuals of our feelings towards such venues.

Group Leader is Frank Parker, 795974.