Oysters Are Back!

Well, I failed to win a single penny at the point to point last weekend but it was a glorious day, despite the thundery forecast.  There was actually a lot of blue sky (as you can see) and only one sudden cloudburst, but it hardly interrupted what was otherwise a wonderful day out.  I might have better luck this weekend, our second point to point at Holnicote starts at 1pm tomorrow (Saturday 9 May).

As usual, there’s been a lot happening in Porlock recently.  We’re excited to let you know about a new venture, whereby oysters are being re-introduced to Porlock Bay by a community-led group.  Porlock Bay oysters used to be served as a delicacy in London, but excessive trawling meant that the business died out in the 1890s.  Now, a trial has established that oyster farming could once again be successful and, what’s more, the project has received a Grade A hygiene rating, which means that the oysters are clean enough to be eaten straight from the sea without being washed! This week the project has received additional funding from the Exmoor National Park Authority.  It’s great to see so much local (and indeed national) support for the venture.

If you’re in the area on 24 May, check out the West Country Farm and Food Tour, which has just received an excellent write up in the Sunday Times Travel Supplement.  Billed as ‘The Full Sunday Experience’, it will start from Porlock and head over the moors to visit a traditional beef and sheep farm that has been in the same family for generations. A two course Sunday roast awaits at the next stop where you will also have the opportunity to meet the pigs, goats and alpacas, before returning to the start point via an exciting new ice cream dairy.  Adults are £65 and children £55, bring wellies / footwear that can be disinfected, walking poles if you have them and spending money; cool boxes will be provided.  Spaces are limited, so if you’d like to book or need more information please call 01643 863002.