MEMBERS of the East Hampshire Self-Suffic-iency Group enjoyed their annual self-sufficient barbecue in a delightful countryside setting last week.

As usual, members brought their own food to grill and their own drinks, to be supplemented by side dishes prepared by other members including home-grown ingredients. They then ate together seated along a long table made by joining several in a row, covered by a single cloth and lit by candles and hanging lanterns, giving the effect of a medieval banquet.

Group founder Alec Fry said: “I am delighted that after 37 years the group is still flourishing. I think it’s largely due to the fact that we have adapted to members’ needs over the years, and we now have something to offer everyone who wants to get the most out of living in the country.

“Few of our current members keep livestock any longer as in The Good Life days, although some still keep a few hens, but they all enjoy growing healthy food for the family, and learning more about countryside activities. We are, of course, one of the local groups of ‘Garden Organic’, the organic growing association.”

The group is now beginning its new season of indoor meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm in the Triangle Centre, Liss, and full details of activities are given in its website, www.ehss.org.uk. Visitors are welcome at every meeting.