COOKERY writer and BBC Great British Menu judge Prue Leith was special guest at the first of what is hoped will be many literary lunches hosted by Haslemere Travel.

Last Monday’s inaugural Haslemere Literary Lunch was attended by more than 50 guests, and Mrs Leith, who has just finished recording the 10th series of the popular TV cookery show, also shared her thoughts on her many other interests, including her latest novel, ‘The Food of Love: Laura’s Story’, which was published in paperback earlier this month.

The event included the opportunity to meet Prue and purchase copies of her books for signing, as well as enjoying a welcome drink, a two-course lunch and goodie bag.

Ticket purchases also included a charitable donation to award-winning Haslemere Educational Museum.

Haslemere Travel owner Gemma Antrobus said: “I was delighted the inaugural Literary Luncheon in Haslemere was such a great success, encouraging so many visitors to its historic hub, for what proved to be a very entertaining speech and a delicious lunch.

“It was a great example of several local businesses working together to launch an unique occasion in our historic town, while simultaneously raising funds for our wonderful local museum,” she added.

“I very much hope it will become a regular event in Haslemere.

“Prue Leith is certainly a fascinating woman, with a varied and successful career in several fields, and the large queues for her book signing was testament to how much the audience appreciated her first visit to Haslemere.

“Haslemere Travel is grateful to Haslemere businesses The Georgian Hotel, Haslemere Educational Museum, Marley Flowers, The Haslemere Bookshop, The Aga Shop, East, and Woodie and Morris for their help with the event.”