Food and cooking in the 1970s.
Remember Angel Delight, Vesta curries and the arrival of convenience foods? Join me for an entertaining trip back to the kitchens of the 1970s, with stories from my years teaching cookery, writing food books and watching British eating habits change.
I’ve enjoyed giving these talks at Putney Library and several Women’s Institutes, sharing memories of the food we cooked, the books we used and the changing tastes of Britain.
Dame Prue Leith said about my book
‘An accurate, and sometimes very funny, account of the trials of a young food teacher in the 70’s.’
I’ve been involved in food teaching for over 50 years, so I’m a bit of living history!
My books tell the stories of teaching cookery to teenagers in East London during the 1970s — the challenges, the laughter and the food we ate.
Remember Angel Delight, Bird’s Custard, Spam, Bisto and Stork margarine? Where did these familiar foods come from, and how did they change our kitchens?
And what was life really like in 1970s London, with the three-day week, power cuts and bedsits?
It’s a nostalgic and often funny journey through food, teaching and everyday life.
Who’s the talk for?
This entertaining and nostalgic talk is ideal for Women’s Institutes, libraries, history groups, community organisations and anyone who remembers the 1970s — or is curious about how we lived and ate then.
A sense of humour is definitely welcome!
My talk fees get donated to Royal Trinity Hospice
Mudlarking talk
Stories from my Guide to Mudlarking book.
Mudlark talk at SW19 WI
What’s it really like to be a mudlark on the River Thames?
Join me for a fascinating journey along the Thames foreshore, discovering the treasures, mysteries and unexpected objects washed up by the river.
I’ll share some of my favourite finds, explain where you can explore the foreshore and talk about the dangers to be aware of.
Did you know that the Thames has long been regarded as a sacred river? I’ll also reveal some of the unusual offerings I’ve discovered along its banks.
