By Phil Nichols

The global pandemic dominated life across the globe and our little urban oasis at Spitalfields City Farm was not immune to its impact and challenges. At a time when the community needed us most, government restrictions and lockdowns reduced and at times stopped people’s access to the farm. The staff team, volunteers and trustees all had to adapt to the circumstances, working hard to continue to provide much needed support, education, and engagement with the local community during these difficult times.

So it was nice for us to get the opportunity to say thank you to everyone who helped and supported us.

We therefore, recently held two 'supper club' events at the Farm on October 28th and October 29th, generously funded by Tower Hamlets Council's Mayor Covid Recovery Cohesion Events Fund.

Guests were treated to a three course sit down meal, held in our Safari Tent. Where possible, we used food and ingredients sourced from the Farm. This included our herbs, a pumpkin and chard curry, curried aubergines, a cucumber raita and poached pears. We had an outdoor fire to help everyone warm. We also had an entertainer, a local singer, who provided a set before and after the meals. The tent was decorated with fairy lights and bunting to help create a cosy and inviting atmosphere for everyone.

Guests on the first night were our dedicated team of volunteers. It was a great opportunity to thank them for their hard work and dedication throughout the past 18 months and for them to meet each other, as often they do not work on the same days.

The second night was a more general community event and we invited people who live locally to the Farm who are frequent visitors, as well as staff from community organisations we work with. This included Phoenix School, The London Interdisciplinary School, Nourished Communities, Mike’s Table and Thomas Buxton Primary School. Again, it provided a great opportunity for people to meet each other and chat over a delicious meal.