AFTER a satisfying snack we encountered this paper's features editor. Immediately he said: "It's clear what you two have been up to. Did you get value for money?" Read on!

Considering its small size, this venue has flourished for many years. With only five tables, each with fresh flowers, we speculated why more than 20 teapots appeared in the serving area.

The menu contains attractive choices. Should we try the soup of the day, Stilton and mushroom at £2.60? Or a jacket potato with perhaps beans or egg mayonnaise priced at £3.50? What about a chicken caesar salad or one with smoked salmon and Greenland prawns (both £4.60)?

Much as Ann likes prawns with Marie Rose sauce, she thought not in a sandwich. However, the brie and apple variety (£2.40) sounded just right. Offered white or wholemeal bread she chose the former and was delighted with the result.

Normally Ann dislikes sandwiches if the crusts have not been removed. However, in this instance the crusts were soft and quickly disappeared as did the garnish of lettuce, tomato, cucumber, onion, coleslaw and a slice of orange. An excellent start.

The ciabatta with bacon and garnish that was my selection was equally good.

By now all the customers that had been present when we arrived, had departed and all tables reoccupied.

Looking at the list of sweets, all were modestly priced at £1.90. Would it be hot mince tart or apple tart? No. Lemon tart is a favourite of Ann's, so the choice was easy. And the brule cheesecake would suit me. Disappointment! It was with profuse apologies that the German waitress explained that neither was available.

Turning to the chill cabinet, Ann opted for a lemon meringue that was good, light and met with total approval. I came to regret my choice of a butterscotch cheesecake. The portion was generous and extremely rich. I suspect I should have been satisfied with a slice one third of the size of my helping. A jug of fresh cream was also provided.

Ann felt that the sweets must be home-made and was surprised to be told 'no'.

So yes, Mr features editor, we reckon we had value for money and so should our readers.

Updated: 07:48 Saturday, November 22, 2003