Eddie and Statty come over all leafy in the park, in this case London Fields. The Broadway Market, just across the way, proved to be a surprisingly Bohemian quarter peopled by locals and trendies in equal measure. There was a trendy caff with signage in reverse, which is why I can't remember its name. Plus pubs with tables out on the pavement. In fact it was warm enough to have a drink outside.

Tom and Alan had already made themselves at home at an incredibly slim marble-top as you can see. The catering size chilli vinny bears a note of caution. What marked out the Cooke's experience from other run-of-the-mash shops was the shimmering iridescence of its liquor. And it tasted good too. I haven't seen anything like it since the Harrington's trip in 1999.

Tony's digit is as animated as an agitated elver, having partaken of a modest eels and mash. But let us not scoff at his OAP portion, for the framed disclosure informs us:

'EELS have high dietetic value. Indeed the body oil in EELS, which is almost 30% of their whole substance, contains not only Vitamen D — but almost as much Vitamen A as good cod liver oil.'

A classic bout from 35 years ago, on my seventh birthday in fact. I'll let you work it out from there. This was surely a night of pugilistic entertainment to have Harry Carpenter frothing at the flies with excitement. If you are curious to see how it panned out, Read the full review here..

On the right is 'Commonwealth Edison' Mosse who, judging by his double pie wipeout could be starting to punch somewhere above balsa-weight.

Pie Shop of the Year 1998. With our trip to Broadway market I feel we have moved a step closer to solving the mystery of the original Pie and Mash Club of Great Britain. Also, I was recently contacted by Mister Monty Martin of Basildon, whom I believe was a founding member. He is on the trail of his old china and former President of the Club, a certain John Smith. I'm sure you'll appreciate it's not easy finding John Smith.

By the way, Graham Darlow came within a whisker of his own world record, set on 23rd May 2003. On that day he amassed a staggering 44 points with a ridiculous 6-2-1-1-1. Is it any wonder the eel is an endangered species?

A building site opposite Cooke's.

Hackney scenic.

Sun over the Heath. A host of golden daffodils is just out of shot.

St@