Page 25 of Christmas at Rachel’s Pudding Pantry

First stop was their staunch supporter, Brenda, at the deli.

‘Morning, Brenda.’

‘Hello there, Rachel, pet.’

‘You couldn’t do me a favour and pop some of these flyers on your countertop?’

‘Oh, what’s this, then?’

‘We’re starting a Pudding Club over at the Pantry.’

Brenda took a flyer, and began to read it aloud:

‘Welcome to The Pudding Club at Primrose Farm

For an evening of fun, food and friendship!

Come along to Crumble Night on Thursday 7 November

With treats to taste, tea and coffee, and a chance to chat all things puddings.

There’s a small fee of £5, which includes all food and drink.

We’d love for you to join us.

Best wishes,

Rachel and Jill Swinton x’

Rachel had spent several hours last night on her laptop, planning the first night, then tweaking the poster and flyers for its launch. She hoped the invite sounded friendly and informal, and that they would raise some interest through the coming week and get a nice little group together for the club’s inaugural meeting – fingers crossed.

‘So, what do you think?’ she asked with a little trepidation.

‘I think it sounds great. I might have to bob along and take a look myself.’

‘Well, you’ll be more than welcome.’

‘And can anybody go?’

‘Absolutely – young, old, experienced bakers, beginners …’

‘What a good idea. Well, you can certainly put some flyers there on the countertop, and I’ll pop one in the window for you, too.’

‘Aw, that’s brilliant! Thanks, Brenda.’

‘Oh, have you heard about Stephanie’s new baby? A little boy, 8lb 2oz, born in the early hours of this morning. All doing fine. Joyce was in this morning, made up about it, as you can imagine.’

‘Aw, that’s lovely news.’

‘And there’s some new people just moved into the Old Vicarage. Seem a nice enough couple. Just retired. Moved up from Durham way. The Johnsons, that was it.’

Brenda was the eyes and ears of Kirkton village. She had the best vantage point in the high street and a constant flow of customers to keep up to date with. You certainly didn’t need a broadsheet when Brenda was around, but it was all done in a friendly manner.

‘Oh, and we’re running short on your chocolate puddings, so when you’re next in town can you bring a few through? And I may as well take a couple more of the sticky toffees too.’

‘Great, and I will do. Thanks for your help.’ Rachel gave a cheery wave and set off on her mission to flood Kirkton with flyers. After all, nothing ventured, nothing gained.

‘You’re welcome, pet. Best of luck.’