Diary dates...

What's going on in May

May Day bank holiday

7 May

Think extra staff and extra stock for this traditionally busy weekend. You could even have a maypole in the garden and cook up some old English treats. Why not make life easier and run a "combat menu", a small selection of dishes that can be simply prepared and got out quickly. See toweroflondontour.com/recipes for some interesting ideas.

Henley Food Festival

11-12 May

Pub chefs performing culinary demos include Tom Kerridge, Mike Robinson, Paul Clerehugh and Mike North. For more info, see www.henleyfoodfestival.co.uk.

British Sandwich Week

13-20 May

The British Sandwich Association organises a whole week to celebrate sandwiches. See www.sandwich.org.uk for more details.

National Vegetarian Week

21-27 May

Even meat eaters turn green in the summer months so stock up on veggie treats. See www.vegsoc.org for news and ideas.

National BBQ week

28 May-3 June

This year's theme is Gastro Alfresco, described as the

sophisticated evolution of BBQing. For information and tips, including eating and entertaining alfresco, recipes and advice, visit www.nationalbbq.co.uk.

PubChef Battle of the Barbecues competition

30 May

Are you licensed to grill? The challenge to find Britain's best pub barbecue team will come to a head at the Royal Oak in King's Bromley, Staffordshire. See the June issue for the winners.

Coming up in June

Fathers' Day

17 June

Dads will be expecting to get taken out on their big day, so make sure you are geared up. Barbecues are always a hit with the men, get plenty of red meat on the menu, and check for TV sports