In two taxis to the Manoir borne

I had decided not to write about trips out wining and dining any more for fear that you would think that was all we did. This, of course, couldn't be further from the truth. I write about them because we don't go out very often, and when we do we prefer to go somewhere memorable.

I can only describe our recent team trip to Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons as memorable, so I would be doing it an injustice not to mention it. We took all our full-time staff in two taxis down to lunch a couple of weeks ago and had the most amazing day imaginable. It wasn't just the nice food and attentive service that made it so special, it was the whole experience that made us think just what eating out should be like.

We were very lucky, as it was a beautiful sunny day when we kicked off with Champagne on the lawn and a saunter through the immaculate gardens. Lunch was lovely, enhanced by wines suggested, explained and served by a very helpful sommelier. Some of our team had never been anywhere like Le Manoir and were a bit apprehensive, but at no time did anyone feel uneasy or out of place. After lunch we were given the grand tour - more of a grand stagger for some of the party (not mentioning any names) - then back to the garden for several ports, a game of croquet and a short filming session with Carlton TV. Cringe! We eventually left at 7.30pm having, I'm sure, slightly outstayed our welcome.

We all came back with a new lease of life at a time of year when it can all start to feel a bit of a slog, as it's just so busy every service.

We have been preoccupied with other happenings, too. After four years, Andrew's sous chef has decided to move on, which has prompted us to think about totally restructuring the kitchen brigade. This was something that we knew we had to do in order to move forward into new ventures; but, having stupidly put it off, we have now been forced to do it mid-season.

However, you live and learn, and fortunately we have found good people and are taking on a head chef - scary step for us - and a new sous chef.

The hearing on our planning application has been delayed for a month, which is disappointing. Hopefully, all will go through at the committee meeting in September so that we can have the shop up and running by Christmas.

JACQUIE PERN and husband Andrew own the Star Inn at Harome, North Yorkshire Next diary from Jacquie Pern: 20 September