WCS is reborn! The new kitchen is finished and fabulous. The island seats 15 comfortably, and includes hobs and electricity so that all the action can be seen from your seat. The new ovens are raised, and there is a separate range cooker for those wishing to be hands on. It is a truly beautiful space, a delight to inhabit. Also new to Woolsgrove are two large rooms for hire. One is large, the other is huge. Both are stunning. They are ideal for meetings, meals, parties, teaching, exhibitions, product launches, photographic shoots – the possibilities are endless. There is new, dedicated parking. To view all the new spaces, see forthcoming classes and catch any special offers, visit the brand-new WCS website at www.woolsgrove.co.uk, going live very soon.

Guest demonstrators and contributors are part of the new regime. Kate Shirazi, cookery author and proprietor of Cakeadoodledoo, is offering hands-on days on the 2011 programme, including lunch and a free book. Plans are afoot for days encompassing wine appreciation, Pilates, and nutritional seminars, to name but a few. Phone, email or check the website to see these exciting new offers as they firm up.

Woolsgrove is also the new shopping hot-spot in Mid-Devon! Treat yourself or buy for the person in your life who has everything, from quality names such as Le Creuset, Screwpull, LSA handmade glassware, Sophie Conran at Portmeirion, Cakeadoodledoo and Pampered Chef. WCS gift vouchers are always the perfect gift, the gift of an indulgent day out.

Many people have asked me if prices at WCS will rise to pay for the new facilities. Prices are rising, but not to pay for new facilities. Prices are rising to reflect significant costs increases over the past 8 years in food, wine, fuel, labour and insurance. Prices are rising to bring us more into line with those offering similar services, though happily, prices are more Mid-Devon than London, Bath or Bristol. Prices include the 2011 VAT rate of 20%, as I am now registered. WCS days remain excellent value and compare favourably in price with other schools. Prices remain lower in January and February, to help after the expensive Christmas period.

Happily, some things will never change. WCS offers Programme days where old favourites combine with new innovations, such as 3 and 5 day courses, “Superfoods”, “ Sauces”, “Real Greek” and “Desperate Housewives” to name but a few. Bespoke days are always popular – convene your own group of children, teenagers, men, ladies, family or friends on the date of your choice, with the content of your choice. Convene a group of 9 and the 10th place is free; convene a group of 15 for the price of 13. Larger numbers are great for the event hire rooms, but on Cookery School days, places are limited to 15, to maintain the personal rapport and camaraderie that is our style.

I thank all my lovely guests over these years, particularly this year with the building noise and mess! I also thank my husband, Andrew, for making my dream come true. I look forward to welcoming you all in the exciting years to come.

Gretchen Oldland, Woolsgrove Cookery School