• THE Fishes in North Hinksey and their friends at Aspall Farm are preparing to launch a new Cyder Garden in preparation for a (hopefully) glorious summer. Dotted with sunny and shady spots, the garden’s outside bar serves up chilled Aspall Cyder, the perfect accompaniment to a delicious meal from the new Fishes BBQ and picnic menus. The gates open to the public from Sunday – make a reservation by calling 01865 249796.
  • The Whisky Shop in Turl Street has announced the launch of an exceptionally rare and collectible single cask whisky, with a limited stock available from May 7. The Glenlivet Quercus, which has been aged for 17 years in American white oak, will never be produced again: this is a chance for Scotch enthusiasts to experience a unique product, although it comes at the steep price of £200. In return, you’re offered an unrivalled purity and a wonderful depth of flavour; a soft, smooth whisky that hints at chewy, sticky toffee and bursts of Seville oranges.
  • Oxfordshire schools have the chance to be part of the British Food Fortnight’s Harvest Festival celebration, and accompany celebrity guests and VIPs at Westminster Abbey. In a competition launched by HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, children are invited to enter the Harvest Lottery by collaborating on a special harvest box – this must include home-grown fruit and vegetables, food cooked in class and a selection of grub from local producers. Growing, cooking and buying quality food is all in the ethos of the Harvest Festival; those classes whose boxes demonstrate a passion for great produce will be invited to bring it along to the service at Westminster Abbey in October.

Applications must be received by the end of the summer term, July 24. More details can be found at lovebritishfood.co.uk/harvest-lottery-for-schools.

  • The Thatch in Thame is celebrating its five-year anniversary with a dinner party for guests tomorrow night. Fun and frolics with lashings of bubbles are obligatory. All the team, past and present, will be on hand to ensure a fantastic evening, £25 per person for your tables.

The celebrations continue on Sunday with live music and pudding boards to share. The Grapevine Blues are playing from 4.30pm to ease you into the evening after a Sunday Roast. This being a Bank Holiday, there will be no thoughts of work on Monday so kick back, relax and enjoy!

Call 01844 390164 to book your table. See thethatchthame.co.uk