IN TRUE OSCAR style, I need to begin with my parents, without whom the world of picnics would be lifeless. My brother Stuart and sister Colette were willing participants in picnic play in woods, paddling pools or the beach, and I have many happy memories of our time together. For the last 20 years my wonderful wife, Judith, and my daughters, Holly and Lily, have been the best of outdoor companions and this book is dedicated to them.
I would also single out Jo Foley, Jan Maish and Lisa Whitehouse for helping put the book together, and to Waitrose for advising on the wonderful recipes, to Sara Pearson for getting it off the ground, and my brilliant PA Zoë for all her help.
To Peter Cameron for helping me build the Chubby Grocer Picnics website so that everyone can share their favourite picnic adventures.
Lastly, I want to credit the great British countryside. In my opinion, there is no more beautiful country in the world. And to help preserve and protect it, all my profits from this book will be donated to The National Trust.