Tour of H. Forman & sons.
6th April 2022
AWC Visit to H Forman and Son, established 1905
Delicious smoked salmon was at the forefront of our minds when a group of 35 of us, AWC members and their guests, met at Hackney Wick Overground station on 6 April 2022. We were met by Claire Bishop from Forman’s for the short walk to Fish Island and then, suitably health checked and robed, we were able to view the fish processing area in full swing.
One of the owners, Lloyd Hardwick, took us into a side room for a very interesting talk on the company and its products and an excellent demonstration by Pepe of how to fillet, prepare and slice smoked salmon. Both of them were so well informed and so enthusiastic that AWC members were quick to respond with lots of questions. In fact, the dialogue was so interesting that we ended up being a little late for lunch.
We were also told about a fascinating book written by Lance Forman about the prelude to the 2012 Olympic games. Preparation for the games meant the company had to move from their previous location, in what would become the centre of the Athletics stadium to their lovely new premises on Fish Island. Apparently, the intrigue and intimidation described in the book means there is interest in making it into a film. Cue for many AWC members to buy a copy of the book to find out exactly what happened.
Our initial anticipation was ultimately rewarded with a starter of smoked salmon, royal salmon and gravadlax and a main course of Scottish salmon in a delicious herb and mustard sauce (other menu choices were available). This was all washed down with a glass or two of English white wine grown and bottled in Sussex.
Overall it was a very interesting, informative, intriguing and ultimately delicious day out. Thanks to everyone who made it all possible.
Phillipa White
