And so the Rollicking Tales Blog Tour is finished. I won't bore you with yet more of my thoughts and opinions, in truth I'm sure sure I have any left. Instead as promised a celebratory cocktail.

Shropshire Sling

This is a version of the famous Singapore Sling as, being intelligent and well-travelled people, I am sure you will have guessed. The main difference is I have substituted some of the gin for sloe gin. This is excellent liquor, easily and cheaply made with the fruit of the blackthorn, simply added to sugar and gin.

Now be warned. This cocktail may be pink and frothy, but it is not to be thought womanly. As easily as it slips down it is prone to leave you with rather a heavy head the next day.

I have gone back to the original Singapore Sling recipe, which is slightly more complicated than a lot of modern versions, but is worth the extra effort.

½ shot Grenadine Syrup

½ shot Campari

½ shot Grand Marnier

The juice of 1 lime.

1 shot Cherry Brandy

1 shot Sloe Gin

1 shot Gin (I used Bombay Sapphire, any decent gin will do)

3 shots Pineapple juice.

Simply add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker, and shake. Garnish with a slice of lime.