Boys Like Peter Are Not Afraid of Wolves

Saturday saw the Pie tribe taking the train to Liverpool to attend a concert by the Royal Liverpool Philarmonic Orchestra.

The whole concert had an animal theme, before the finale where the orchestra played live backing the latetst animated version of Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf produced at the Oscar ®-winning Se-ma-for Studios in Poland using stop-frame model animation ( Like Wallace & Gromit).

Despite the best efforts of the Pieman to fall asleep during the first half it was very entertaining. Ice-cream was available at the break but no sign of any pies. What's classic about that!

Santa Stuck

We've heard of Santa getting stuck in a chimney but not on the canal. Three Santa's are pictured today trying to negotiate Chemistry Lock with mixed success!


Hope your Santa arrived safely and brought what you wanted. The extended family pie is blobbed out on the sofa desperately coming to terms with the Ostrich they just consumed. We are feeling like Mr Creosote at the moment just waiting to explode. Hopefully this feeling will go before the plum pudding is served.

The Pieman wishes all friends and family a happy safe time over the festive period.

Christmas Shopping

Mrs Pieman and Pie Daughter No2 returned late Saturday night from a Christmas shopping coach trip to Cologne. This was with Mrs Pies's schoolwork place and included Pie daughter No 2 as a Birthday treat.

A great but tiring time was had by all. The markets both on land and water ( The Rhine) were excellent with both returning laden with goodies, except Pie which was a tad disappointing. This short trip also including Ice skating, a trip round a Lindt chocolate factory and sightseeing around Cologne specifically the Cathedral.

The trip was nearly extended when the coach broke down outside Brussels due a broken fanbelt. Three hours or so later they were fixed and a new crossing via the chunnel meant they were only half an hour late getting back.

Feed The Yak ! Feed The Yak !

Rain wind and more rain. A trip to Goodison Park today for the Pieman courtesy of the Dragonslayer. Unable to find a decent parking spot resulted in us getting absolutely soaked before we reached the Park End. Not a good start when the Pieman has been struggling with a bad dose of Man flu this week. However the thought of Pie kept me going. A new pie was on offer a "Scouse" pie.

Basically a meat, veg and potato offering which along with the Dragonslayer's Steak Pie was supplied by CLAYTON Park Bakery based in Hyndburn. Out of ten I would give it a seven. It had essential qualities for a football pie - heat, tray to hold it with and no queue. However it was noted that they served a large version of their Steak Pie and it was humungous.

Everton were pretty poor in the first half with Fulham having the better of the chances. Still not dried off by the start of the second but things started to improve on the pitch. Helped by the never ending runs, tackles and imagination of the Pieman " Steven PIEnaar" the toffemen ended up 3-0 winners, O happy days.

Having followed him from his Middlesbrough or possibly Portsmouth days, a hat trick by Yakubu resulted in 35,000 screaming evertonians shouting

"FEED THE YAK AND HE WILL SCORE!

FEED THE YAK AND HE WILL SCORE!

FEED THE YAK AND HE WILL SCORE!"

which had the pieman laughing his flu off.

Big Pieman

In honour of the Pieman this was created by workmates and added to his computer as a screen background which couldn't be removed. Oh what japesters they are !!!!!

I'm just a bit concerned by the chap on the right. Is he trying to eat the pie or what???

More importantly where can I buy a Pie this big?

Animals Fight Back

There's always a price to pay for eating to many pies. Consumption is down in recent weeks due to illness, christmas approaching (room required) and the animal kingdom getting a bit uppity with the Pieman.

In the last few months the Pieman has been besieged by bullocks, harassed by horses, snarled & threatened at by a wolf (Multi Millionaire's Alsation - I wasn't trespassing) and scared witless by a cock pheasant.

I hasten to add that no provocation was provided by the pieman for any of these outbursts, except for the Pheasant who the Pieman tried to tread on whilst out walking recently. Ps Which of these has the Pieman never eaten?

The Counter Attack Starts

Another concert, same city different band. This time the Pieman and the Dragonslayer headed to Manchester Academy2 to see the ever rocking Alarm featuring Mr Mike Peters.

This was the final gig of the year before the band release a new album early next year. Some of the latest material was featured including Superchannel, Plastic Carrier Bags, Drunk & Disorderly, 45 rpm, Love Hope & Strength, Cease & Desist and My Town.

Plenty of favourites were thrown in including Knife edge, 68 Guns, Spirit of 76, Rain In the Summertime, Sold Me Down The River, The Stand (Pie Favourite), Where Were You Hiding, Absolute Reality, Rescue Me, Marching On (Pie Favourite), Blaze Of Glory. All this with a fantastic medley at the end of Anarchy In The UK, If the Kids are United, I'm So Bored With The USA and Blitzkrieg Bop and a rendition of Slade's Merry Christmas Everybody as well. Excellent!!!!

As usual Mr Peters/Alarm didn't disappoint with a very loud and committed set. The venue, which we've been to quite a few times before, was sweaty and cramped. The Academy has a number of different rooms and No2 was just right this time.

The ground floor entrance, bar areas and toilets have had a lot of work done on them since our last visit. Although on street parking is more difficult than ever. However we did discover the parking at the Manchester Eye Hospital just around the corner. Well lit, patrolled and £2.00 for three hours...not bad.

Apart from some medicated idiots the concert was great and the Pieman looks forward to the Gathering in January. Does anyone know of a drummmer who hits his kit as hard as Steve Grantley???

Time On Earth

On Thursday last Pieman and Dragonslayer went with respective spouses to see the fantastic Crowded House in concert at the MEN Arena in Manchester. Despite the rapidly changing plans due to a blown tyre we all made it on time.

Although it meant with time short we ignored all the offers of parking leading up to the venue and dived into the official car park next door ( £8.00 a pop!). Strolled in bought a drink, shown to our seats by a yellow (hideous) jacketed steward, lights went down, band came on......perfect timing.

A number of tracks were played from the new album "Time on Earth" including Your The One To Make Me Cry, Don't Stop Now, She Called Up, English Trees and the latest single Pour le Monde. But with an excellent back catalogue to trawl I don't think anyone was dissappointed. I can remember Locked out, Don't Dream It's Over, Not The Girl You Think You Are, Four Seasons In One Day, Something So Strong, Better Be Home Soon, There Goes God, Hole In The River, Private Universe, Weather With You, Fall At Your Feet, Distant Sun, Mean To Me and doffing a hat to sadly departed drummer Paul Hester, Italian Plastic.....

This was the Pieman's first visit to the MEN Arena and I didn't have chance to spot any pies but on the whole you have to be impressed by the arena itself if not the parking. We have since heard some horror stories re parking around and about the arena for events. As we were late we ended up on the 9th (Top Floor) of the official carpark.

After the concert we sat without moving for about 40 mins. However we had chocolate, fireworks, a view (Manchester at Night) and chat to occupy us. Once the queue did move it was very quick and efficient. So even with this I would not be put off going again to a concert.

Cherry Groovers Top League !

Following on from last week's first outing the Groovers took part in an inter school indoor competition at the Northgate Arena. Nine teams took place being split into two round robin leagues.

The Groovers won two and drew one topping their league and qualifling for the A league round robin which was very tough. They lost a couple of games by 1 goal but did enougth to secure third spot overall.

A number of games are now being lined up for the New Year with local teams.

The Big Match

Congratulations to the Cherry Grove Groovers in their 1st ever competitive football match against the Mill Dew Marauders.

The match was a close fought contest with the the Groovers going down 2-1 in an exciting match.

In goal for the Groovers was Pie Daughter No2. After a very early goal against them by the GIANTS of Mill Dew, the Groovers began to impose themselves on the game with tenacious tackling, a charging commitment and no small amount of skill.

At half time the score remained 1-0 to the home team. An early goal at the start of the second half by the marauders led to renewed efforts by the groovers to get back level. Mounting pressure by the Groovers led to a goal and an exciting finish with time beating them eventually. A very worthy first effort and we look forward to their next appearance.

It's a Big Old Goofy World

The Pieman and the Dragonslayer headed for Liverpool and the Liverpool Philharmonic to see the brilliant Mr John Prine in concert.

Backed by two excellent guitarists, Dave Jacques and Jason Wilber, he waded through two hours of material from his back catalogue. Including Hello in There, Sam Stone, Souvenirs, Angel of Montgomery, Paradise, Spanish Pipedream, Lake Marie, You Got Gold, Up On Bear Creek, That's the Way That the World Goes 'Round (Happy Enchilada Song), Fish & Whistle, Grandpa was a Carpenter, All The Best, Dear Abby......

Excellent evening and many thanks to the Dragonslayer for coming along. For a great introduction to the marvellous Mr Prine check out "Great Days" a 2 CD retrospective.

Fish & Chips

Saturday night is Chip night in the Pie household. Usually our choice of chippy is the the incomparable Sea Breeze on Chrisleton Road. If it's good enough for Neville Southall it's good enough for anyone.

However to celebrate the end of half term we headed for Blackpool. The journey was straightforward although parking was a nightmare as we've never seen Blackpool so busy.

The promenade was heaving with far too many hawkers selling junk. Eventually we could walk no more and entered a suitable Fish & Chip emporium. Obviously it could not compare to a Sea Breeze offering but was acceptable nonetheless.

It was then onto Central Pier for a go on the fair before indulging in some extremely hot doughnuts. Heading back to the car the rain came down and the sights came out!!!!! Both wonderful and awful in equal measures Blackpool is always great place to go to and leave.

Inspector Morse

As an early birthday present for Mrs Pieman we headed for a lecture by Inspector Morse writer Colin Dexter at the University of Chester.

A well attended and interesting talk. Very funny, although not intentionally I think, and delightfully charming fascinating man. The evening ended with a question and answer session. But with the expansive of his answers only four were were managed including one from Mrs Pieman regarding Morse's name "Endeavour".

Before we left she spoke to the man and got the obligatory signed book. All in all a great evening and much better than anticipated.

The Big Yin

It's a while since the last note. During September accompanied by the dragonslayer and respective spouses we headed for Liverpool Philarmonic Hall to see the wonderful Mr Billy Connolly.

The Last time the Pieman had been to this venue was to see Cliff Richard!! It took a bit of finding including driving the wrong way up a way one way street. However we arrived safely and found a parking spot literally yeards from the front door. This was convenient as Jake dragonslayer was suffering badly recovering from a foot operation.

The man himself was on fine form and even came back on stage to give us the England and SCotland results. A great evening and a pretty good venue.

Happy 40th Birthday

Happy Birthday to Lynne Pie on her fortieth birthday. Word reaches The Pie Tribe that Lynne has been attending Pies Anonnymous and is a changed person!!!!

We hope that her birthday goes well and involves Pie at some point during the day.

French Pie Search

The Pie Tribe have been away searching for new pies this time in France. A country renowned for its pastries, chocolates, snails, horses, donkeys, mussels and general all round cooking skills, it is still sad to report that it is a veritable desert when it comes to pies.

Our searches took us to stay near Rouen. From where, by train we made our way to Paris. The female contingent of the tribe were determined to sample the fashion shopping delights whilst the Pieman was thorough in his quest for meat filled pastry.

Occasional stops for buildings and places of interest sidetracked us (Please see photograph) but we were unsuccessful.

A brief trip into Belgium was even fitted in but to no avail. That is it until we reached Boulogne where a concoction consisting of Ham, Pistachio, Jelly and Pastry was located. Interesting and edible but not one to set the world on fire, the quest continues.

Hoole Fest

The rain stopped and Hoole Fest could go ahead. A free afternoon of fun, food and make up!!!! Pie Offspring 1, 2 and friend demonstrate the art of subtle make -up.

Giving the Pieman chance to catch on the final stage of the Tour de France undisturbed. So much so he fell asleep.

French Leave

Mrs Pie has just returned from a school trip to sunny France. Whilst rains came down and the rivers rose Mrs Pie headed off to Normandy for relatively sunny trip.

Whilst there they enjoyed Castles, Markets, Goat Farms, beaches, cemeteries, WW2 sites and picturesque places such as Honfleur, pictured left.


However no significant pie was encountered. But nonetheless her return was treated with resounding cheers. As supplies of delightful (cheap) wine, exquisite Cheese's (Including peppered Goat!), delightful chocolate and divine bread were gratefully received to soften the blow of no pies.

Make-Up Overload

Pie Daughter No1 goes overboard with the make up for a trip to the summer fayre at the Cherry Groovers fund raising event today!

The picture actually demonstrates the face of No 1 makes when the Tigers lair is asked to be tidied.

Highlight and most popular activity, apart from circus skills, seemed to be throwing wet sponges at members of staff in the stocks. Personally I think the coffee maker should have been placed in the stocks for the anaemic dishwater that was served to the Pieman.

Pie In The Park

The highlight of the trip to Grosvenor Park was the discovery by the Pieman of a Pie stall amongst all the different tents and displays. The Pieman selected the Steak, Brandy and Cracked Peppercorn Pie for testing.

We were not dis-appointed with this excellent offering and were sorely tempted by the Pheasant, Blue Cheese and Chardonnay example available.

Unfortunately information about these Pies was scarce. Although the stall holder informed the pieman that they were available regularly at the Farmers markets at Chester (Town Hall Square) and the Grosvenor Garden Centre (Pulford).

Some research leads us to believe they are produced by a Nercwys (Mr & Mrs Pieman Spent first night of married Life in Nercwys!!!) based company called Harvie's. Ltd. No website at present exists though.

Harvies Ltd
Waen Farm, Nercwys, Mold, CH7 4EW
Tel: 01352 751 285Fax: 01352 751 285Mobile: 07813 810 721e-mail: pastrys@btinternet.com

Loose Kites in the Park

Following on from the trip to Le Tour the Pie tribe spent some time chillin in Grosvenor Park with a number of activities taking place throughout the Park to tie in with the Live Earth concerts taking place the previous day around the world.

The highlight for the Pie Tribe was the 40 minute set by the Loose Kites. With the rain belting down outside the kites belted out some foot tappin favourites to the delight of the gathered throng ( A large contingent of Cherry Groovers).

The drummer (Mr Stark) followed this up with another set fronting T-Rex tribute band Jeepster.

Le Tour De Pie

The Tour de France comes to Britain, deep joy. Having followed it for many years on the TV the opportunity to see it in the flesh was too good to miss. So last Saturday the Pie tribe took the train down to London for the day.

As you can see from the picture it was heaving with people, sunny and fantastic. This was just the queue for Pies in Hyde Park!!

The day started well when upon arrival at Euston the first thing you come across as you walk throught the ticket barrier is a dedicated Pasty Shop called the "The Pasty Shop"!

We ended up, after seeing David Millar (not on his bike), in Hyde Park and enjoyed the tented Village with a plethorea of edible delights on sale. Also available (Free) was the opportunity to try out all sorts of unusual bikes which was great fun.

We shall of course be following the fortunes of all the British riders but the Pieman in particular will be paying attention to the fortunes of American George HincaPIE .

Pie Beer

As part of the recent Fathers Day the Pieman was treated to a beer of distinction namely "First Gold". What a wonderful way to finish the day. After fishing (many Bream), cards, gifts, no rain, food and good company a chilled bottle of beer was an excellent finish.

This delightful refreshment comes from Badger Ales and is by it's own claim the "perfect accompaniment to a pie" - Well I'm not going to argue with them! They also claim with some competition evidence to be the "Best Bottled Beer in the World". A bold claim which you can test yourself by going to their website and ordering some or try your local beverages supplier.

Bikeathon

For the second year the family Pie attempted and completed the Chester Bikeathon in aid of the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. All bikes this year were in working order and we started slightly ahead of our alotted time.

A downpour ensued and we all got soaked but the wind and our exertions eventually dried us.

The weather was very changeable but didn't prevent everyone having a good time. Another downpour at the half way Point (Pub) did little to dampen our spirits and by the finish the sun was blazing. The only problem of the day? Lunch was provided at the end of the ride with a medal but not a Pie in sight!!

Feeder Update

The new feeder rod has proved very successful for the Pieman with half dozen 3-4lb Bream taken in the last week from the Shroppie.

Even one with a sizeable chunk taken out of it by a collision with a Pike, Perch,Cormorant, Heron or mink I'm not sure which? Sweetcorn has been the bait of choice so far but no sign of the carp.

Porg In A Pie???

Many thanks for this delightful and interesting sign found on a recent trip to Bath & Longleat by the Dragonslayer and family. What a curious filling for a pie?

A quick trip to wikipedia confirms the pictures story and reveals a bit more about Sir Jeffery Hudson.

"On his 7th birthday, in 1626 Jeffrey Hudson was presented to the Duchess of Buckingham as a "rarity of nature" and she invited him to join the household. A few months later the Duke and Duchess entertained King Charles and his young French wife, Queen Henrietta Maria in London.

The climax of the lavish banquet was the presentation of Jeffrey to the Queen, served in a large pie. When the pie was placed in front of the Queen, Jeffrey arose from the crust, 18 inches tall and perhaps dressed in a miniature suit of armour. The Queen was delighted and the Duke and Duchess of Buckingham offered Hudson to her as an amusing gift." For the expanded story of his life click here.

What's the most Curious Pie filling you have come across?

Pink Peril Goes to The Zoo

The Pieman and the Pink Peril enjoyed a day out at Colwyn Bay Mountain during this weeks school break. After enduring wind, rain and fog en route the weather broke out into a gorgeous day.

Favourites of the day were the penguins, talking Macaw, Red Panda, Otters, Sealions, Ostrich (minging!!), Chimps ..........

After walking up and down a hill for a couple of hours lunchtime was very welcome. Unfortunately the standard of catering left a bit to be desired. The Pies on offer were woeful. So bad were they that the brand name and price were not known. Cardboard with a vacumn was the best way to describe the Pieman's lunch.

The Don Strikes Big

This weekend the Pieman tested out a new feeder rod (Appropriately named for the Pieman!), reel and alarm combination with assistance from the "Don" of shroppie fishing.

The result a 3lb bream for the Pieman on the second cast with several nice roach to follow in a short session! The next day from the same spot the "Don" weighed in with this colossus. A 20lb+ Mirror carp after a 15 min fight.

The weight is conservative as the scales broke!! But it was more than big enough for a few pies.

Cathedral of Consumerism

Bank Holiday weekend trip to The Trafford Park Centre (Deep Joy). This principally to allow Pie Daughter No1 to spend birthday money burning a hole in her pocket.

Highlight of the trip though, quite apart the "People Watching" and purchasers, was the visit to the Selfridges food Court! Several individual pies were available for purchase the most interesting of which was the Lamb & Mint. The Selfridges own Gloucestershire Pork Pie look worthy of attention but seemed a tad expensive.

Also noted was the Sushi bar which was very very busy. The idea of sitting watching food go past on a conveyor belt is quite appealing, tempting and demoralising all at at the same time. Eventually food purchases were made in the scrum that is known as the Great Food Hall and not a pie was seen.

The Pieman left the temple of materialism wondering why it is so popular when so many people there look so thoroughly miserable!!! Or was it me just focussing of the fellow pie eaters waiting outside of the umpteenth clothes shopping for ..............!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Robert De Niro sings Happy Birthday?

Many thanks to all those who sent a present , a card or best wishes for the Pie daughter no 1 birthday this week.

Due to weather barbeque inside with one member of the family coming in fancy dress.

Please note Robert De Niro ( Travis Look-a-Like) in the centre of the picture! Many thanks to Cousin Pie for making the extra effort to make the day memorable.

Pie In The Sky

A belated Christmas present for Mrs Pieman on sunday was a Birds of Prey experience in the middle of Cheshire. The day was split into two with the morning being a "Meet The Birds" session and the afternoon a "Walk on The Wild Side".

In the morning Mrs Pieman was introduced up close to six different raptors including an African Eagle Owl, Buzzard, Harris Hawk, Ferruginous Buzzard(pictured below left), Bateleur Eagle (pictured above left) and a Steppe Eagle.

There was a short break in the middle to get some lunch. A lovely Steak & Onion Pie being located by the pieman quicker than a hungry Falcon (200mph+). After lunch it was off for a trek through the local woods with a couple of Harris Hawks to scare the local rabbit and bird population.

Mrs Pieman escorted a male Harris Hawk ( called Tyler) to the woods who before the end of the session went AWOL he was enjoying himself so much!

Both sessions were led by interesting and obviously well informed Falconers. Their knowledge and enthusiasm for the birds was infectious. The weather and conditions were fantastic and a memorable day was had.

Nearly Plastered

The thought of household chores led to a loss of concentration during a recent handball practice. Net result another visit to the Royal Infirm of Purpose by a member of the Pie Tribe.

No plaster as yet but with Infirm of Purpose in charge this situation could change. Torn ligaments and a tiny fracture in a finger. Three hours not too bad and pie eating hand still intact.

Wanted Urgently

Urgently need two man , easy to put up, tent for weekend away. Can anyone help? Please contact Pieman or Mrs Pieman.

House Of Pie

Excellent website for discovering what your Representative is up to. Speeches, voting record, questions, topics of interest, Most recent appearances in Parliament, Register of members interests, expenses ........

There is a section called numerology where various statistics are provided to judge how there performing.

ie " This MP's speeches are understandable to an average 17–18 year old, going by the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level score. " - Christine Russell MP for Chester.

You can email your MP from this site and keep track of what they are doing with various feeds.

ie "[David Taylor in the Chair] — Cross-border Transport (Deeside) (6 Feb 2007)
“That is absolutely true. However, there is a close inter-relationship and synergy between north-east Wales and west Cheshire today, except on the odd occasion when there is a local derby between Chester and Wrexham—it might not be quite as harmonious then. As has been said, it is significant that well over 80 per cent. of all the journeys that begin in the Deeside hub area end within the...”

You could email them to drop the Vat on Pie Purchases for the well being of society in general, farmers and over eaters like the Pieman.

http://www.theyworkforyou.com/

Plastered Update

After another visit to the Royal Infirm of Purpose it has been discovered that Nanny Pie has not broken her wrist or any other bone apart from her funny bone!

So the plaster is off and pie munching can recommence. This is excellent news with imminent holiday due.

Meanwhile most of the Pie Clan has been down with cold, flu, etc in the last week.

On The Rocks

A great day was had by the extended Pie Tribe this easter weekend. We arranged to visit the bench placed in memory of Grandad "D" on the Rocky Coast path between North Stack Lighthouse and the Breakwater in Holyhead.

The A55 was relatively speaking, not too bad and the weather was glorious . Our cars and passengers convened for a picnic at the nearby country park.

Due to feeling rather ill a Pie was needed for it's recuperative powers. This was duly procurred from the local Netto and at 49p a relative bargain. Alas you get what you pay for and this was absolutely dreadful. Avoid at your peril a Tindale & Stanton Steak & Kidney Pie it was truly awful experience.

We had a report of damage to Grandad "D's" bench but on arrival someone had beaten us to repairs. After an enjoyable walk the day was finished of with a stop at Llandudno for a stroll and Fish/Chip supper in restaurant.

Nanny Pie gets Plastered!!

Our heartfelt sympathies to Our Lady of Stainsburys who unfortunately has broken her wrist in a fall on Wednesday.

Contrary to first thoughts this was not due to an excess of alcohol ( 10.00am), tripping over a pie or oggling at some male totty. Many thanks to staff of nearby Yates Wine Lodge who assisted in her hour of need.

A later visit to the Royal Infirm Of Purpose confirmed fracture and resulted in necessary plaster application.


Please note photo confirms drinking arm still intact. However no driving or work for up to 6 weeks so any help with lifts, errands and Pie unwrapping much appreciated.

Fish Pie Help

We are desperately looking for a home for five tropical fish, none called Wanda, belonging to the the piester in law.

An Angel fish, a very small catfish and three small Danios urgently need a new home. Can you help? We can deliver.

Alternatively a recipe for fish Pie might be considered.

Pink Power

Another glorious spring sunday and a walk around the Groves and onto the meadows to make space for Pies!!

An ice cream was bought to counter the sad loss of "WeinHolts of Chester" a purveyor of fine cakes, Pastries and baker of Pies. They are closing after many years of fine service to the Pie eating public of Chester.

Pictured is Pie Offspring No2 in full Pink Power Mode.

Schools OUT

To raise money for school funds and to celebrate the end of term the PTA of Cherry Grove School arranged a night of live music at Boughton Hall Cricket Club

The Loose Kites, The Stops, The Invisible Wires and various combinations performed to a sold out audience. Top of the bill was the Loose Kites who have two teachers from Cherry Grove in their line-up drummer Mr Stark and singer Mr Poole who is offspring number 2's teacher.

They were excellent!! Check out the songs at their Myspace site and in particular the track Called "Radiation Vibe". The evening ended with the dancefloor overcrowded and lots of money raised.

The only down side of the evening was the lack of pies available. However a pint of Extra Cold Guiness managed to distract us from our Dreams Of Pies.

Get Fit For Pies

Spring has arrived, the clocks have gone forward and it's time for some serious exercise. Lose some weight and there's more room for Pies! So with due diligence the Pieman set of for a walk through the fields and woods around Burwardsley on Sunday afternoon.

Fantastic weather, fantastic views and a few calories burnt off. Unfortunately a Snugburys ice cream and a pint of mead at the wonderfully located Pheasant Inn negated all the good effort!!

No pies consumed but checked the excellent menu available at the Pheasant Inn which has a good reputation for its fodder.

However Steak, Weetwood Ale and Mushroom Pie under a puff pastry lid , served with hand cut chunky chips and garden peas @£9.45 seems a tad on the pricey side. As it has a lid does this qualify as a Pie????

However if anyone wishes to sponsor me to test this gastronomic offering I'll give it a go. Alternatively various wildlife was spotted which could be used in the making of a home made pie such Cows, Sheep, Masses of Pheasants, Squirrels......?

YFriday - Live

Pie offspring number 1 heads for Liverpool by coach on saturday night to Wavertree for a concert consisting of YFRIDAY, 29TH CHAPTER(Pictured), HOOLIO & AD-APT, SENTINEL7 & PURE CREATIVE ARTS. Returns home late and tired.

No pies spotted or consumed just craved!! Music described Rap/Hip Hop/Rock ??? Review from No1 Pie offspring "Very loud" and "Really Good"

Crowded House Reform

The same night we were watching Tim Finn at the Lowry in Manchester his brother Neil was leading a newly reformed Crowded House back on stage in Bristol for their first gig with new drummer Matt Sherrod.

To find out about the NEW album and subscribe to their newsletter just click on Crowded House above to take you to their site.

Although their disposition to Pies is currently unknown. Crowded House are the only band the Pieman can recall eating food onstage during a gig. Smoking, drinking, flowers (The Smiths!), Spouses (Mrs Bono) have all been paraded on stage but no pies or other food.

However Crowded House are the only band witnessed eating on stage during a gig. Again in Manchester at the Academy, Nick Seymour stuffed and consumed a whole Chocolate cake prior to a rendition of the song of the same name. Very impressive, one of those Chocolate logs all in one go.

Tim Finn Live

Quay Theatre at the Lowry, Salford Quays Manchester. The Pieman and Dragon Slayer were lucky to secure tickets for Tim Finn's first Concert tour in the Northern Hemisphere in thirteen years.

An excellent evening with New Zealander Mr Finn playing from his whole repertoire including selections from his solo albums ,including his latest Imaginary Kingdoms, Split Enz, Crowded House and other collaborations.

He played excellent versions of Six months in a Leaky Boat,Couldn't be done, Parihaka,Midnight Coma,Poor Boy, Unsinkable, Dirty Creature, Songline, Not Even Close, So precious, Persuasion, Chocolate cake.......Encore 1: How will you go, Shark Attack Encore 2: Astounding Moon, It's Only Natural

The venue we were visiting for the first time and were VERY impressed. It's fairly new you so in very good condition with very pleasant facilities/layout and reasonable prices at the Bar! The staff were very helpful and informative.

However when searching for fodder the on site cafe was found to be poorly stocked with not a PIE in sight.

The only downside of the night was that the REDS were playing at home and went to extra time resulting in a scrum when the concert finished. So along with an accident on the motorway on way home it was a late return home with no Pies. However an intimate excellent venue with a brilliant performance overshadowed the transport issue.

French Pie Famine

On a recent visit to the culinary centre of the world, according to our French cousins, a Junior member of the Pie Tribe resorts to entering a Spar (Alpe D'Huez ) in search of a Pie.

Upon spying what looked like a Pork Pie on display in the deli area our pie starved offspring dived in. Unfortunately her french not yet being sufficient, the Pie has remained unidentified. It had pastry, with a slight amount of jelly and a meat filling.

However, having previously eaten a Donkey Sausage unwittingly (I thought the donkey logo was the producers company logo!!!!) we can only assume that this was indeed a Pork Pie. As with the picture the the outlook was pretty but bleak when it came to pies.

Year of The Pig

Fireworks, parades, funfair, sideshows, music, food (but no Pies!), displays, great weather........... and a great time had by all celebrating the Year of The PIG with not a Pork Pie in sight.

In disgust members of the party retired to a traditional cafe for apple pie.

Thoroughly recommended as a trip out for all those looking for something free to do whilst saving the pennies for the serious pursuit of Pies. However don't forget to take an emergency pie with you just in case.