THE sales were on and judging by the queue outside one well known caf, we thought we may have difficulty in finding somewhere to eat.

However we struck lucky! The early snackers were just beginning to return to the Shambles. Although we had to join a queue it was only for minutes as the early snackers were just beginning to leave.

We secured a table in the front part of the caf - a non-smoking area. There is additional accommodation upstairs where the toilets are located.

Staff were attentive and tables cleared quickly which enabled the steady flow of customers to be seated with minimal delay.

A specials board faced us as we waited to be seated and the standard menu was provided when we sat down. For Ann the chargrilled vegetables on a salad bed with a roll and butter which we thought was £5.25, would do nicely. This turned out to contain aubergines, courgettes and peppers. There may have been other ingredients which we couldn't identify. Ann found the entire meal very satisfying.

I was tempted to try one of the pasta bakes with mixed salad (£5.50). But choosing from tomato pesto topped with melted cheese, chicken in white wine with tarragon, tomato and prawn or broccoli with blue cheese was too much of a challenge.

Instead, the smoked fish platter (£5.50) would be a change from Christmas fare. Mackerel, trout and salmon were evident, set off with a substantial salad. Coleslaw, horseradish sauce, shredded carrot and cress supplemented the usual salad items. It was not long before my plate was cleared.

Cheese, scrambled or poached eggs on toast all cost £3.99.

We also spotted speciality teas such as pear and guano or echinacea and raspberry for the discerning palate. Even plainer fare such as toasted teacake (£1.45), scone (£1.30) and hot chocolate (£1.95) is available.

I admit to still feeling hungry when we left but perhaps my stomach had become used to heavier meals during the festive season. Our bill showed 'food' and 'smoked fish' both at £5.50 which was more than I had expected but...

Updated: 09:25 Saturday, January 25, 2003