THE Clinton Hall at Merton was host to a riot of tasty dishes, wafting aromas and 17th century nibbles last week, as Peter Hood and his wife Jen of PastPresent.org.uk shared their love and knowledge of cookery from days gone by.
Students who attended the event enjoyed experiencing practical lessons in preparation of such dishes as suckets, knoblees and leaches — but not the blood sucking variety!
The event was staged as part of the Monck400 celebrations being organised in Merton this year, to celebrate and mark the 400th birthday of one of England's greatest heroes, General George Monck.
The general was born at Great Potheridge, near Merton and the year of celebrations are being held with support from a grant from the National Lottery's Awards for All scheme.
George Monck served as a soldier to King Charles I in his youth. He later swore allegiance to the Parliament and became one of Cromwell's most foremost generals.
Following Cromwell's death, he led his regiment, now known as the Coldstream Guards, from Scotland to oversee the restoration of the monarchy.
He died in 1670 and was given a full state funeral.
The next event planned is an 'Evening with General Monck' in the church at Merton on March 27 at 7.30pm, where certainly General Monck would have visited in his youth.
Organisers say the event with General Monck and his wife Nan will be a history lesson not to be missed — no dry lectures or dusty history books but first hand accounts of the General's life, and the opportunity to ask questions.