A WARM front spread among customers at a Pendle pub as TV weatherman Fred Talbot curried favour by hosting a special Indian meal.

Fred brought his home-made chutneys and home-grown chillies along to spice up the evening at the Punch Bowl, Earby, on Saturday.

Around 50 people enjoyed the meal cooked up by a chef under the instructions of Fred, a friend of landlord Bruce Thomas.

"It was an unbelievable night," said Bruce. "All our tables were full and at £8.99 everyone was saying what good value it was.

"Fred said afterwards that he'd really enjoyed himself. He's a keen Indian cook but he's never had to cater for so many people before."

The menu consisted of soup, followed by two different lamb curries and a vegetarian dish, ice cream, and coffee and mints.

Now that customers have acquired a taste for the event, Bruce is hoping to repeat the evening in six months' time.

Food is playing an increasingly important role at the Punch Bowl. Bruce has just opened a carvery section and is aiming to earn the pub a reputation as a leading place to eat out.

Fred is pictured serving a spicy dish to Diana Cross (left) and Kathryn Stackhouse.

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