1 large oxtail; 4 cloves; 1 large onion; 2 large carrots;

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1oz. flour mixed with 1oz. butter; chopped parsley; salt to taste

Method:

Cut the tail into pieces (or ask your Larkhall butcher to do it for you).

Place in a large pan and cover with water, bring it to the boil.

Skim it well as the scum rises and then add the onion with the cloves stuck in it, the sliced carrots, cayenne, salt and bring back to the boil. Allow to simmer for 2 hours until the meat is tender.

Remove the meat and vegetables and keep warm on a serving dish. Add the flour and butter mixture in pieces and cook until it thickens. Pour over the meat and sprinkle on the parsley.

Make sure that all the cloves have been removed.

If you are feeling really adventurous, then use a fresh hot green chilli pepper (or two) instead of the cayenne.

Exercise classes held here weekly are many and varied with different styles of yoga, general exercise, dance and Pilates, all available for differing levels of ability and age groups. There’s monthly all-day energising Qi Gong on February 11th, March 4th and April 8th. The slimming element can be chosen from Slimming World classes or Sanela’s popular Weight Loss Challenge. Add to that a stimulating weekend workshop, such as Tai Chi on 5th and 6th of March, or Yoga dance on April 9th and 10th, and you will soon be in peak form, trim and healthy, all ready to hit those summer beaches.

This term sees the return of many of our regular activities and classes aimed at our younger members and we are proud of all of the great things on offer at the hall for them to enjoy. From Sing and Sign and Jolly Babies to Little Stars toddler football and Sally Handley’s fabulous Mum and Me sessions; all are a great way to make new friends, have fun and get involved in some exercise and creative fun with your little one!

This year we will also host a fantastic exhibition of handmade quilts. Please mark the date, 16th and 17th April, in your diary and make an effort to come along and view these spectacular, colourful pieces. The quilts on display are similar to ones you might see in the American Museum but let’s face it, getting here is much easier.

Other special springtime events include a Buddhist weekend on April 2nd and 3rd and the highlight of our spring season, the wonderful Larkhall Festival. We are delighted to welcome back this annual event and look forward to a wonderful showcase of events for everything positive and good going on in our vibrant community.

For more details of activities held at the Hall please visit our web site www.neworielhall.org.uk , check out the external notice board or call us on 01225 466606

It doesn’t have to be that way. Why not this spring put time aside to search for the new life Jesus brings? The Alpha Course for many has been a way many people have discovered this life, anyone is welcome to join us on it. Also the Church services this spring are all focussed on moving towards experiencing this life afresh at Easter. Come and join us. There’s always a warm welcome to those who come – 10.30 am or 7 pm every Sunday.

Rev’d Michael Norman
Rector of St. Saviour’s Church