* Word has it that Simon Bradley, who took up the reins of executive head chef at the Macdonald Randolph Hotel last summer, is doing great things and really shaking things up in Oxford’s most famous hotel kitchens.

Simon, pictured, had classical training at the Ritz Escoffier Hotel School in Paris and has worked in some of Britain’s most prestigious restaurants including Le Manoir.

He was the Executive Head Chef for two hotels in the Peak District, East Lodge and Callow Hall. At East Lodge he gained three AA Rosettes and at Callow Hall two.

Macdonald Randolph Hotel is hoping that, under Simon’s direction, it too will soon achieve its own third rosette and by all accounts he’s heading in the right direction. Review to follow.

* Blackwell’s is hosting a lighthearted talk and fine wine tasting tonight at 7pm with Neel Burton and James Flewellen, the Oxford-based authors of the new Concise Guide to Wine and Blind-Tasting.

The book is for all those seeking to acquire a deep and sympathetic understanding and appreciation of wine.

Tickets, costing £5 and including a selection of wines to taste, are available at the customer service department at Blackwell’s in Broad Street, Oxford, or by calling 01865 333623.

* The Pointer in Brill received a Sawday’s pub award this week – for its dedication to providing the very best in local, seasonal and organic produce.

Now in its 11th year, Sawday’s much loved Special Places Pubs and Inns of England & Wales comprises over 1,000 of Britain’s very best pubs.

Fifteen have been handpicked to receive an award in one of five categories and The Pointer was one of three winners of the local, seasonal and organic produce pub award have been recognised for their commitment to sourcing the freshest food; juicy vegetables straight from the garden, heartening homemade cakes, and meat from owners herds and neighbouring farms, as well as locally brewed ale, and organic wine.

Critics noted: “The wine list is impressive, the beer is Pointer, the cider is local and the food is good modern British.

“Next door is their own butcher’s shop and deli, Longhorn cattle come from the local farm; their hide covers the cool bar stools and their meat goes into the burgers.

“Try seared grouse breast with watercress salad; wild mushroom risotto with parmesan or warm chocolate brownie with chantilly cream. It’s a sophisticated place but you can still bring the dog.”

Call The Pointer on 01844 238339

* Maison Blanc’s new summertime patisserie menu concentrates on sunshine, warmth and all things delicious by including a Mousse Pomme, Mango and Passion Fruit Slice, Lemon Curd and Strawberry Cream Cupcakes Tarte aux Fraises, Storm in a Teacup (chocolate mousse infused with fragrant Earl Grey Tea) and a Blueberry and Violet Cheesecake.

Available in the Burford and St Giles stores.

See maisonblanc.co.uk