They seek him here etc...

By Paul Fulford on March 8, 2008 6:24 PM | Permalink

Moseley on a grey, drizzly evening in early March does not automatically conjure up images of Paris. Yet tonight my road was for a few moments transformed.

A van pulled up out of nowhere, the beret-clad driver emerged and opened up a shutter to reveal a treasure trove of Gallic goodies.

There were wild mushrooms, stuffed tomatoes, fabulous cheeses, sausages, figs, bread - a whole array of the sort of flavour-packed, good quality foods that make a visit to France such a culinary treat.

My half-French neighbour was out in an instant, stocking up. Likewise the French woman who lives opposite. Within seconds there was a gaggle of people buying stuff.

Now I'm busy nibbling slow-roasted tomatoes flavoured with anchovy and a whole lot of garlic andf about to slice a loaf of walnut bread.

The enterprising French guy who runs the business - and goes under the name of the Scarlet Pimpernel - has promised to return.

I'm not too sure about the name of the business because I've always rather sided with the other side in the French Revolution, but I sure as heck will welcome him back with open arms.

The entente will be cordial.