Once upon a time...

...there was a girl called Meriel who decided to gather a few choice friends together for an evening of food and fun. The 6 friends all arrived at the Orlebar house, despite Meriel neglecting to let the Orlebars know until the very last minute - to save them from panicking, I expect.

The friends arrived laden with a delicious feast with food and treats of all shapes, sizes and smells. The table was bursting with succulent lamb, vegetable gratin, bruschetta and much more. All the friends enjoyed the feast which was washed down with sticky fermented grape juice.

Before long, the carriages were prepared and the friends journeyed out into the spring night towards Cranbourne and the neolithic round house. On arrival, the friends gathered sheepskins and plump cushions and numerous coats and hats, for the roundhouse can get a little nippy.

A roaring fire was waiting for them and just as they sat down, along with the rest of the audience, the storytelling began. The friends heard fascinating tales of frog princesses, huts with chicken legs and murderous worms as they sipped their spiced apple juice.

After a wonderful evening of magical tales, the friends made their way back to the Orlebar house for cake and custard and peppermint tea (and the FA cup final highlights for the boys).

And they all lived happpily ever after.