Time for a small but shameless spot of self-promotion I think. In my capacity as insane over-compensating mother-of-three (two at school) I get into a bit of fundraising every now and then. My latest effort is rather grandly entitled a ‘Book and Wine Event’.

This entails the following: The Mayor of Waitakere City, Bob Harvey, will be talking about his latest book, Westies, together with his photographer, Antoine Gasperini. This will be quite a double act I imagine. Kelly Ana Morey, author of Bloom and Grace is Gone will be chatting with… me! Aarrgghh! And Alessandra Zecchini, author of Italian dessert cookbook Sweet As will be talking about puds in Italy and will also have a small but mouthwatering selection of treats to try. Also! We have a bargain book table, nibbles and wine (first glass completely free).

All this for the ridiculously paltry sum of $15. All proceeds to our beleaguered country school, Laingholm Primary for their new school-and-community hall. Where? Lopdell House Gallery, Titirangi, West Auckland. When? Friday 1 July, 7.30pm. Tickets? You can email me and I’ll hold ‘em for you, or if you’re a westie, pick them up from Titirangi Pharmacy. Be there or be sad and bitter.