THE LEICESTERSHIRE SPEAKERS OCTOBER 2009
FOOD GLORIOUS FOOD

Unknown to each other, three of the four speakers had chosen food-related subjects. By the time the interval came, their audience was ravenous and yearned for more than the usual coffee and biscuits!

Dot Barnard gave us the inside stories of dishes named after famous people. The Earl of Sandwich was so obsessed by gambling that he asked for his meat to have a slice of bread on each side so his fingers wouldn't stain the playing cards. Peach Melba was created for Dame Nellie and many other famous names were revealed as the lid came off more and more dishes.

Ivan Crowdell's title of ‘39145' had everyone guessing until he admitted it was his mother's Co-op number. He recalled the days when the Co-op - with scant regard for health and safety – was our chief source of over-the-counter food, his word pictures vividly creating smells and tastes as well as the look of those old shops.

Anne French told us there is a natural health–giving product that, under the right circumstances, grows like weeds. Since 400 BC, the medicinal properties of watercress have been recognised, optimistically thought to also be an aphrodisiac and a cure for baldness! Nevertheless, modern research shows watercress to be immensely good for us and Anne urged to rush out and buy some.

As a change from food, Morag Wilkins shared her newfound enthusiasm for following the round the world single-handed yacht races. She brought her subject to life with the aid of a globe and told stirring tales of hardship and death or glory deeds.

The instant three-minute speeches were organised by Ann Dixon and covered pastimes. The talks revealed that, statistically, gardening is the most dangerous hobby and there were conflicting ideas on what makes good TV. After that everyone rushed home to enjoy a larger than usual supper

The Leicestershire Speakers welcome anyone who would like to learn the art of speaking in public. Our meetings are supportive, informative and entertaining. We offer enthusiasm and encouragement to help turn nervous wrecks into confident speakers. We meet at 7.30pm on the second Wednesday of each month at the Blaby Drop-In Centre. For more information ring Anne Jones on 0116 2772295, or visit our website www.leicspeakers.co.uk.

We are also available to give entertainment and talks to other societies and groups.

From Stan Barrett
01455 29011