DISCOVERING "DANDELION" IN STOCK VILLAGE

Out and about today visiting Stock village to meet John and Melinda Tickel who run DANDELION Coffee Shop in Mill Road.  Absolutely gorgeous coffee, amazing cakes - a real boutique style café and the warmest welcome from two expert cooks.

As a writer, I'm pleased that they will be selling some of my books linked to local towns and villages and those of some of my fellow writers. John and Melinda make all the cakes, cookies and scrumptious food themselves and offer their venue for children's tea parties and gatherings.

I also spied some interesting preserves, honey and other items that will make super gifts.  They also sell some rather special greeting cards that  are really fabulous. John has just taken supplies of THE STORY OF BILLERICAY written by local historian, Charles Phillips who is currently signing his books for customers. 

As well as being a mother to their three children and a fabulous cook, Melinda is also a writer and her book entitled THE VILLAGE MUMS is a good read,  full of quickie recipes, stories, quotes and tips and I hope she will join me on Phoenix 98fm Book Club in January to talk about how she and her pals created their useful little book - a great gift for Christmas £9.99.

Do pop in to DANDELION at 20 Mill Road, Stock, Ingatestone CM4 9LJ Tel:   01277 840023. www.dandelioncoffeeandgifts.com