London boozer slams in the spam

Regulars at a south London pub are celebrating a great institution ahead of the Queen's Golden Jubilee - after the lunchtime menu was transformed into everything Spam.

Sweet and sour Spam, Cajun coconut Spam goujons and even a full range of Spamwiches are just some of the dubious dishes on offer.

It's all part of Spam week down at the Crane Inn in Wandsworth - the result of one man's obsession with the famous luncheon meat that kept hunger at bay during Second World War rationing.

Landlord Kevin Barker is a Spam fanatic. He wears Spam T-shirts, displays Spam bar towels and is even a whizz at Spam trivia.

He'll tell you, for example, that Spam was developed in America in 1936 and was originally called Hormel Spiced Ham. More than five billion cans have been sold worldwide.

Mr Barker said: "It started as a bit of a joke but it has really taken off and I think people are revelling in the nostalgia of it all. There are so many things you can do with Spam. It's a much maligned meat, which is usually criticised by people who have never even tried it. It's actually delicious, very nutritious and, above all, excellent value for money."

Other dishes cooked up by Mr Barker, 44, include a special Spamburger and Best Bitter batter Spam Fritters - deep fried battered Spam served with beans, chips and a pint.

He said: "I've bought scores of cans in and it looks like I might have to bring in reinforcements. The customers think I'm mad but the response has been phenomenal."

The celebration is due to culminate in a Spam Quiz next Wednesday with the winner getting... a tin of Spam. Questions will include: who called Spam a "war-time delicacy"? How many members are there in the official Spam Fan Club? In which year did Monty Python's Flying Circus feature the song Spam, Spam, Spam, Spam?

I f you answered with Margaret Thatcher, 9,000 and 1970, then you're in with a chance. Mr Barker, who is single, explained: "My interest took off when I stumbled across the Spam website (www.spam.com), which tells you all about its history. You can buy all sorts of merchandise. I've got salt and pepper pots, mugs, a chopping board and flags."

And Mr Barker added: "I'm already planning my next celebration - a Marmite week."