There are some events that just stick with you, and Erskine’s Oktoberfest earlier this month was definitely one of them. For anyone who doesn’t already know, Erskine is an incredible charity that supports nearly 800 veterans every year. They don’t just provide essential care; they create a real community. A place where servicemen and women can make friends, swap stories, and stay active through all sorts of social and recreational activities.
This October, they brought a little bit of Bavaria to Bishopton – and Hog Roast Bishopton was lucky enough to be part of the excitement! Thanks to a generous donation from the Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal, the whole thing came together beautifully – good food, proper music, and plenty of laughter. A lot of the residents had spent time stationed in Germany during their service, so the whole theme brought back memories and a few brilliant stories too.
Our Hog Roast Bishopton team, led by Brian, (who somehow manages to stay calm no matter what’s going on!) got started bright and early at the Erskine Activities Centre on the first Saturday of the month. The roaster was on before most people had had their morning coffee, and the smell alone was enough to get everyone talking. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like the sound of crackling when it hits that perfect stage!
When the celebrations kicked off, we served up the full hog roast with applesauce, sage and onion stuffing, and soft bread rolls and wraps (including gluten-free ones because no one gets left out on our watch). There were also fresh salads, coleslaw, and a mix of sweet potato and classic fries too. For anyone not eating meat, we had specially prepared grilled vegetable skewers with halloumi (or without, for our vegan friends) and a sweet chilli and tzatziki combo that vanished fast.
Two Towns Down Brewing made sure the steins stayed topped up, and The Brauhaus Brass Oompah Band had everyone clapping, singing, and having fun all afternoon. You could really feel the joy among the guests. It was one of those afternoons that reminds all of us here at Hog Roast Bishopton of why we love doing what we do. Good food, good people, and a cause that truly matters.
