John Moat, famous Welcombe poet, conveyned the first Salamagundi (or Salamongundi) in 1996 for the following reason:

“How does a scattered village like ours, spread out up and down steep valleys, of long-time locals and recent incomers, farmers and business people, old and young – how does a village like ours become a community?

“One answer – the Salamongundi.”

John's descriptioin of Salamagundi:

"A Great Table is prepared, to which all are invited, and to which all should bring as contribution to the meal a little more than they themselves can eat of home-made fare. Of pies or pickles or preserves, or pasties or puddings. Cakes and cordials and confectionery (and crackers). Of cold roast meat, or home-cured hams. Of nuts and fruit and home-brewed ale. Salads and syllabubs from old secret recipes. And ‘giggly butter’ and cranberry jelly, and ‘Jane jumping jelly’. And fudge. And good yarns and memories. And mistletoe and mince pies… and don’t forget Mother. And then when Grace is well-said, you eat what you please."
(From the Resurgence article - for full text click here)

For the past 30 years the Salamagundi has been a wonderful opportunity for the village to get together, share food, have a good natter and celebrate the many talents our community holds.

Over the years Sheila's tiddy pasty has become a Welcombe culinary icon, Mick and Pete's antics are legendary, Mike's chicken has ... been put to rest 🐤😂, and the pantomimes are now part of community myth - thankfully those who believe they witnessed them are said to have fully recovered.

To all who live, work or are visiting Welcombe on Salamagundi night, the doors of the village hall are open and welcoming. Everyone brings a plate of food to share, your own drinks, and a desire to chat and share stories with all the other revellers. The evening wraps up with a celebration of talent and skills from anyone willing to get up and have a go!

The Shoppe of Curisity Pantomime - 2018

The Shared Table