Association Culinaire Française promoting French culinary arts in the UK

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Thames Valley Branch History

The Thames Valley Branch of the ACF began life as the Berkshire/Gloucestershire/Oxfordshire Branch, organised by Raymond Blanc, who was Head Chef at 'Le Manoir'. At the time there were no regional activities.

Raymond asked Bill Brogan, who was then working with him, if he would like to become Chairman, and he agreed.

Bill had been a member of the ACF since 1985 when he was Head Chef at Le Talbooth, and joined the Association along with Chris Barker, the famous pastry chef.

The first meeting of the Thames Valley Branch was held in the George Hotel in Wallingford, and a committee was then formed.

The first dinner was held at Shoppenhangers Manor in 1988. Since then dinners have been held almost every year.

In the early years the branch ran a chef's competition which was a great success.

Over the years the branch has organised visits all over the UK and abroad, including a weekend of cheesemaking in the Yorkshire Dales, 3 trips to Ireland, tastings at Guiness, the Tea Room of the Clarence Hotel and on P&O cruise ships.

Many of the original committee members have remained, although the chairman has changed from time to time. The current Chairman is Mr Trevor Stone.

This year the branch has organised trips to Champagne, Turin and Barolois, and a trip to Portugal is also planned. A dinner will also be held this year.

The branch supports the ACF and Reunion Conseil Culinaire dinners.