Congratulations to Matthew Downing - 2010 Taste of the West ‘South West Chef of the Year’

One sunny day in July last year Whimple came alive with laughter and the enticing smells of Paul's BBQ as a number of friends came together for a relaxed afternoon of eating, drinking and a rare afternoon off. It was also a very sincere thank you to a number of long standing suppliers who work tirelessly to ensure our food remains better than most.

Prawns with garlic, griddled Asparagus and Vulscombe Parma Ham wraps served with Peaches kicked things off, followed by Mustard, Tarragon and Honey marinated Chicken and a large bowl of mixed salad leaves. A superb Devon rare Beef Fillet competed for centre stage with the line caught Sea Bass and for those that could there was also African Spiced Lamb with Flat Bread and Tzatika.

Among those present were Paul and Carolyn Bellinger from Oak Lodge in Ottery St Mary, Patrick and Luke from the nearby Otter Brewery, Chris and Clare from Christopher Piper Wines and Steve from Country Farm Butchers. Ably supported by Matthew, Paul cooked up a series of imaginative dishes and needless to say few were hungry again until the following day!