Lunch Club
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In May we returned to the Chessington Oak as, due to the change of the April date necessitated by Joe’s funeral, they were not able to accommodate us. However, despite giving good notice, and the menu choices in advance, we were rather disappointed: the service was slow, and they were out of scampi, the original choice of three lunchers. But it wasn’t all bad, as these three chose alternatives with which they were all very happy! I will have to speak to the staff before we go the next time – I expect there will be one! Most people will know the ‘Bones Gate’ pub, near the Hogsmill on Chessington Road. This has been not only re-furbished, but re-named! Apparently an early owner was a William Bourne who erected a gate, ‘Bourne’s Gate’, which over the years became corrupted to the ‘Bones Gate’. Val remembers an early sign that was erected, bearing this couplet, which may be still over the bar: “This gate hangs well, and hinders none; Refresh and pay, and carry on.” We have decided to investigate this bit of local history for our next meeting of the Lunch Club, on 16th June, again at 12:30. I have a copy of the menu which you may peruse, but for a change, I do not intend to take advance orders – please be prepared to order when you get there. However, you will still be invited to sign the list so that I can get the right number of seats reserved for us. |
