The Raby Arms, near Hartlepool

Dec 2 2007 by Eddy Eats, Sunday Sun

Telephone: 01429-274058.
Food served: All day.
Drinks: Pint of bitter s2.05, pint of lager s2.35. gin and tonic s3.20, fresh orange s1.60.

IT seems as though the world is going eco crazy. Not a day goes by without some kind of news story talking about global warming and carbon footprints.

We are told that, to save parts of the planet from being four foot under water, we have to stop taking holidays abroad, make our homes energy efficient and generate electricity in as green a way as possible.

The whole green debate is something which splits Mrs E and I.

We both agree its sensible to live as green a life as possible, but something She-Who- Must-Be-Fed cant stand are wind turbines.

To her, they are monstrosities which blight the landscape and are an unacceptable price to pay for trying to help save the planet.

I generally look upon them as things of beauty in their own right that enhance the landscape. There is something quite mesmeric about the constant motion of the whirling blades.

As we had decided to pay a visit to the Raby Arms in Hart, near Hartlepool, we had plenty to talk about while we were waiting for our meals.

The hill nearby is home to three giant turbines which can be seen as far away as Durham on a clear day.

The Raby Arms was one of those forward-thinking pubs which foresaw that a smoking ban in enclosed public places was inevitable.

The landlord there decided to bar smoking a good 12 months before Parliament introduced such a ban . . . and apparently it did wonders for business.

The pub is an impressive size, has a huge car park and is situated right next to a farmers field, meaning that during summer months you can sit outside enjoying a drink while watching lambs frolic.

As it is winter, we decided to remain inside in the plush interior, which has a really warm and cosy feel to it.

I ordered a pint of lager while Mrs E opted for a white wine. In almost no time at all our starters were brought to us.

I had opted for the tomato soup at s3.25 while Mrs E plumped for the duck and walnut salad at s4.95. My soup was piping hot and I had to let it cool down before I could tackle it. Once at the right temperature, though, it was very tasty and I mopped it up with white crusty bread.

Mrs E raved about her duck so much that she made me try a piece . . . and I have to agree that it was among the best-tasting duck I have had in a long time.

For main course there was lamb, beef, turkey or pork. By the time we got there the lamb had been sold out but we both felt in the mood for pork so the lack of lamb wasnt an issue.

Our main courses, at s7.95 each, were brought to us and they looked a treat. Plenty of meat, a good-sized Yorkshire pud with plenty of gravy, boiled and roast potatoes and a good selection of vegetables.

Im pleased to say the main course tasted as good as it looked.

The Yorkshire pud was divine and the gravy was just the right consistency and had a very nice taste to it which I still cant put my finger on.

In fact, after our two courses, both Mrs E and I were full up and couldnt make room for dessert . . . despite the menu being very tempting.