Lord Provost's Christmas Party

Bob Jefferson · Post by **Bob Jefferson** » 29 Dec 2005, 18:32

One of the highlights of 2005 for me was an invitation to attend the Lord Provost's Xmas bash in the City Chambers.

Until recently, these events were the preserve of the well-heeled, the well-connected, the rich and the famous and mere mortals like me wouldn't have got a look in.

This year, however, councillors were given the opportunity to invite a number of people from their constituencies who they felt had made a valuable contribution to the community, or something.

The Portobello contingent included John Stewart, Nick Stroud, Tom and Margaret Smith, Stephen Hawkins, Diana Cairns, Damian Killeen and Alison Robinson, with others invited but unable to attend. Lawrence and Maureen were there of course along with Susan Deacon.

Entertainment came from a Portobello-based band, the hospitality was great and we all enjoyed the evening immensely. The Rt Hon Lesley Hinds clearly knows how to have a good time and Lawrence impressed us all with his energetic interpretations of Strip the Willow, Dashing White Sergeant etc.

Vladimir Romanov and son were allegedly present and, alarmingly, George Foulkes was also invited but the closest we came to witnessing fisticuffs was waiting for the bus home outside M&S. Nigel Griffiths was spotted in deep conversation with Tom Farmer and I recognised Rhona Cameron and um, I'm never going to make a social diarist, am I?

Dadaist · Post by **Dadaist** » 29 Dec 2005, 19:12

Please cut to the important bit - what were the munchies and drinkies?

Bob Jefferson · Post by **Bob Jefferson** » 29 Dec 2005, 19:48

My apologies.

The evening had 'a Catalonian twist' and this was, presumably, reflected in the catering, though not being an authority on the food of this region I am unable to comment on its authenticity. It was, however, in Lawrence's opinion 'the best spread of the year' and included spicy chicken, lamb and beef dishes along with seafood and vegetarian options.

Figs served with pancakes, fresh fruit and a selection of cheese and biscuits for afters. Wine - red, white and rosÃ© in plentiful supply.

Sandra · Post by **Sandra** » 29 Dec 2005, 22:02

Bob Jefferson wrote:though not being an authority on the food of this region I am unable to comment on its authenticity.

Do you know if it was free range and organic though?

Bob Jefferson · Post by **Bob Jefferson** » 29 Dec 2005, 22:36

I generally assume that any food I eat is not organic/free-range/fairly traded unless it is specifically advertised as such but I try not to let this spoil my meal.

I'm particularly upset about the way chickens are factory-farmed though and try to avoid it where possible.

Dadaist · Post by **Dadaist** » 29 Dec 2005, 22:53

Bob Jefferson wrote:I generally assume that any food I eat is not organic/free-range/fairly traded unless it is specifically advertised as such but I try not to let this spoil my meal.

I'm particularly upset about the way chickens are factory-farmed though and try to avoid it where possible.

Ever read The Restaurant At The End Of The Universe ?

Bob Jefferson · Post by **Bob Jefferson** » 29 Dec 2005, 23:11

May I urge you to consider my liver? It must be very rich and tender by now, I've been force-feeding myself for months.

Love all his stuff, inc the Dirk Gently holistic detective novels.

The idea was recently resurrected in 'The Pig that Wants to be Eaten and ninety-nine other thought experiments' by Julian Baggini. My son got it as a Christmas present but I think I might be borrowing it when he's finished.

Sandra · Post by **Sandra** » 30 Dec 2005, 17:08

Bob Jefferson wrote:I'm particularly upset about the way chickens are factory-farmed though and try to avoid it where possible.

i agree to be avoided at all costs

Epykat · Post by **Epykat** » 30 Dec 2005, 19:19

Bob Jefferson wrote:It was, however, in Lawrence's opinion 'the best spread of the year'.

Which of course is only relevant if you know what Lawrence eats on a daily basis (which I don't)

. I think for a committed foodie like you Bob, you took a real chance and should be commended for your bravery.

ecm · Post by **ecm** » 30 Dec 2005, 19:58

Bob Jefferson wrote: It was, however, in Lawrence's opinion 'the best spread of the year' .

See, I took that to mean the best of the year's freebie spreads on offer to councillors, their cronies and various free-loaders.

Not that I'm jealous or owt.

Bob Jefferson · Post by **Bob Jefferson** » 30 Dec 2005, 22:15

In any case he was mistaken. The June issue of Razzle beat it hands down.

ecm · Post by **ecm** » 30 Dec 2005, 23:58

Bob Jefferson wrote:In any case he was mistaken. The June issue of Razzle beat it hands down.