Neven dedicates new book to his mum

It was a poignant occasion when award-winning chef Neven Maguire launched his new book 'The MacNean Restaurant Cookbook' last week. The book was to mark 30 years of the Maguire family business in Blacklion, and Neven has dedicated the book to his late mum, Vera. "This is the book I have always wanted to see," said Neven. "I am so glad my mother was able to see it. I feel so emotional about it. It has so many memories of wonderful nights working with the MacNean team in the village where I grew up and now live. There are a lot of my favourites between these covers. We have had a great journey together and are all looking forward to the next thirty years." It is not often that the dedication says so much about a book. Just a few days before she died Vera Maguire held an advance copy of this magnificently produced book and read the following by Neven: "This book is dedicated to my wonderful mother, Vera, who started MacNean Restaurant. Thank you for all the love and inspiration you have given me over the years. I will always be grateful." No one will be surprised to hear that tears where shed. When Neven wrote those words Vera had been given the all clear. But a few short months later her illness returned. No one understands the story of MacNean better than Neven's mother. She had watched the restaurant, and her son, Neven, grow over three decades. All of the restaurant's signature dishes are here, including 'MacNean Special Porridge with Honey and Cream', 'A Study of Shellfish' and the famous 'Orchard' dessert. Other hugely popular recipes included are 'Gratin Of Cod With Prawns', 'Bruschetta Of Wild Mushrooms And Asparagus', 'Salmon Sausages With Creamed Leeks', as well as classics like 'Pepper Steak With Gratin Potatoes' and 'Roast Rib Of Beef On The Bone With Yorkshire Puddings'. For more on the launch and for your chance to win a free copy of 'The MacNean Restaurant Cookbook', see next week's Anglo-Celt.