Interview: Jane Beedle, baker and cookery school owner

PUBLISHED: 12:05 23 June 2020

Jane Beedle, Great British Bake Off Alumni: where's all the flour gone in Faversham?!

Manu Palomeque 07977074797

Who did you miss seeing the most during the lockdown?

The worst thing about the lockdown was not being able to see our kids. Our daughter is in Barcelona and our son is in Bromley, not seeing either of them for a prolonged period is horrible. Thank heaven for social media as at least we can keep in touch and have a laugh on group chats. Knowing they are safe and well is the most important thing.

Where did you miss going?

Oh everywhere. I’ve lived in Faversham for just under two years but feel as though I’ve lived here forever. It is such a warm and welcoming place and one of the great joys is walking through the town or mooching about the market and chatting to people.

The place I probably miss the most is my gym, Syndale Park. I’ve had a gym membership for years but never felt part of one until now. Friendly members and great staff. We all keep in touch via WhatsApp but it’s not the same as working out together. They have been instrumental in helping me get back to fitness.

What did you miss eating?

To be honest I don’t think I missed much at all. I do lots of cooking and we don’t eat out much as a rule. We still have an abundance of meat and veg locally so don’t feel deprived.

We are extremely fortunate to have good butchers and a great farm shop in Macknade. The only thing I struggled to get is flour, it seems that the town has taken to bread making in a big way.

How did your work change?

I was on the cusp of opening a cookery school just as lockdown began (perfect timing!). It will be situated at Monkshill Farm in the beautiful countryside between Faversham and Whitstable. Obviously, the launch has been delayed until safer times but it will come, so please keep an eye on our website and social media.

Where will be the first place you eat/drink in after this?

We have two young dogs and one of our (and their) pleasures is to stop off at one of three pubs at the end of a dog walk.

So, depending on the route we take it will be The Anchor at Standard Quay, The Sun in West Street or the Shipwrights Arms at Hollowshore. All have a supply of dog biscuits or pork scratchings which keep the girls happy, and currently they pull us towards the doors as we walk past.

What positives do you think came out of this situation?

My husband will have learned to skip. I have imposed a strict exercise regime but promised not to share the videos. Seriously, I hope we will have learned to appreciate those closest to us and the value of friendship. The community is pulling together and the crisis is bringing out the best in many people.

www.janeskitchenkent.co.uk

Instagram: @janeskitchenkent and @janebbakes