REMEMBER when kites were either made of paper or were extremely rare? Well, Peter and Sandie Kemp have an updated view of the latter.

Quiet relaxation last Sunday afternoon was disrupted when they counted 24 Red Kites cruising together over the north end of the valley, near Ragman’s Lane. But an excited text to me just a short while later related that the convention had increased and they were able to count 38 of one of Britain’s ‘rarest’ birds.

That end of the valley has always been a popular circulating space for the Kites ever since their return several years ago. The explanation is well illustrated when Booker gliders also congregate in the area. The topography and micro climate around there obviously creates very useful thermal currents to provide free lift.

But I have never counted as many as 38 gliders at a time.

SEVERAL readers have asked me why there has been no mention, in this column, of the opening of the Red Duck Restaurant.

Basically, unlike a conventional retail shop, an eating establishment needs time to settle in, making early assessments less than fair indications of the quality standards.

In fact, I did receive some early comments that were less than complimentary, relating to various aspects of the overall experience. Equally, there were several strongly positive comments. It was difficult to determine if the less favourable remarks were coming from people who may have been less than well pleased that an eating establishment had been allowed in the first place, following failed attempts to acquire the premises for a take-away (which this business strictly is not).

The solution was for me to wait a while, then do a sort of Egon Ronay style anonymous visit.

In a group of four people, I sampled the restaurant one evening last week. Honestly, none of us could see any basis for criticisms.

Conventional Chinese starters were available in a reasonable variety and came fresh and tasty. I chose a dish that I have always favoured in Chinese restaurants in many different places. The Red Duck’s version was possibly the best I had tasted, being more spicy and flavoursome. My companions each had different dishes and they too expressed total satisfaction.

I never feel a meal is complete without a sweet dish, regardless of whether that is convention for the cuisine of the host country. Fresh, hot and crispy fritters were excellent, and as good as I have enjoyed in China.

The service was attentive and friendly and I would go again. My only reservation was that the menu seems pricey, but against that there is the sheer convenience of a local restaurant, quickly accessible with no particular parking problems. It was mid-week, with around 15 covers during our stay (though there were possibly others before and after), so stress on the staff was not great. The four of us enjoyed the visit.

If it were to aspire to become a take-away, then I and many others would probably have significant misgivings, but the restaurant seems a welcome asset to me.

ROCK BOTTOM takes place tomorrow on the playing field at midday and the music is from 12.30 until 8. The website www.mar lowrockbottom.co.uk/ is very informative and worth visiting.

Prices range from £5 for ages five to 18 (under 5s are free) to £25 for a conventional 2+3 family ticket. There are some still available by visiting the school office by this afternoon. A few priority parking spaces are available for £10, and the same fee buys you the right to bring and erect your own gazebo.

T-shirts, with the Rock Bottom logo, are also a tenner in various sizes.

There will be other stalls and attractions, including refreshments and beer. You can take your own picnic, but no alcohol (there is a beer tent).

The profits from the event will be for playing field funds. No animals will be admitted and valley residents are urged to walk.

ANOTHER valley event (though held at the Crowne Plaza) is the Friends of Burford Ball on September 28.

There are still a few tables available so you won’t have to miss out. See the school website for a ticket form and details. Proceeds go to the Burford extension project.

You can judge the level of an event when you note that a star raffle prize is two return tickets to Delhi and another is an eight day tour for two to the Golden Triangle.

LAST week, there was only enough space to give you minimum information about the St. Mary’s Race Night on October 5, from 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

The aim is to provide a fun night for friends and families while raising money for the parish share. People can come by themselves, as couples or in groups – the more the merrier!

The ticket price is £10, with five raffle tickets included. Apart from the racing, you will be able to obtain food, and there is a bar. As I mentioned last week, you can book a place by phoning Graeme Slocombe on 07785 262078.

Contact Mike on 01628 440636 or email him at michaelwilliams@ ntlworld.com