Enthusiastic gourmets flocked to The Woodlands, Llanvair Discoed, off the A48 between Newport and Chepstow, for the inaugural meeting of the Gourmet Club.

Founded by three men living in the area, the club is aimed at local people with a passionate interest in quality food and drink.

It will also act as a showcase for regional suppliers of gourmet products.

Pascal Meril lives in Caerleon, runs his own catering company and was the tutor on a wine appreciation course at Caerleon where he met Kevin Gale and Dick Schrader who are both keen cooks and live at Undy and Shirenewton respectively.

Together they devised the idea of the Gourmet Club for like minded individuals who appreciate good food, fine wines and eating out in quality restaurants.

The club offers tempting benefits for members including tutored wine tastings, gourmet dinners and discounts with specially chosen suppliers.

The first meeting featured a demonstration involving meat cutting by G K Palfrey, the award winning Newport butcher.

Club spokesman Dick Schrader said: "The Gourmet Club will provide a convivial meeting place for foodies and an opportunity to share knowledge about the best food and drink available in the area."

Annual membership of the gourmet club is £25.

For further information please contact: Dick Schrader: 01291 641461 Kevin Gale: 01633 881565 or Pascal Meril: 01633 431428 or visit www.thegourmetclub.org.uk