Tickets are now on sale for one of Farnham’s most traditional events.

The Farnham Venison Dinner will be held on Thursday 13 November at 7 for 7.30pm in the Great Hall at Farnham Castle.

The first dinner was held in 1605 following a decision by the Bailiffs and Burgesses to hold an annual town feast in an effort to stop the townsfolk from poaching deer from Farnham Park. The custom has carried on throughout the centuries although the venison is no longer sourced from the herds which roam Farnham Park.

The dinner will include a choice of starter, pan seared venison with delicious trimmings and a seasonal dessert. A vegetarian option will also be available and special diets can be catered for.

In keeping with tradition, after the first course the venison carried by the chef, will be piped into the Hall where the Mayor of Farnham, Cllr Jeremy Ricketts will carve the first slice.

Guests will be treated to interesting and entertaining speeches by Canon Peter Bruinvels; the Chief Constable of Surrey, Lynne Owens; The Reverend Michael Hopkins, Minister of the Farnham United Reformed Church and Secretary of State for Health, the Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP.

Pat Frost, Chairman of the Venison Dinner organising committee says: “Farnham Castle is steeped in history and makes a magnificent venue for this age old event. The Great Hall has hosted many Venison Dinners for Farnham residents and guests and this one promises to be just as memorable. It is a very sociable and friendly occasion and everybody is welcome.”

Tickets cost £55 and include a pre-dinner drink. Anybody interested in buying tickets should contact Pat Frost or call her on 01252 728663.

Pictured with the Piper, the head chef carries the venison at the annual Venison Dinner 2013. © David Fisher