'The extreme winter of 1694' (Nostalgia, Roger Bingham column, December 31) was still remembered in the Scottish Borders over a century later with a shudder.

It set in very suddenly there soon after Christmas 1693, with non-stop blizzards for a fortnight. Thousands of sheep were buried. Those away on visits could not get home due to the drifts.

The winter was known as 'the 13 Drifty Days' locally. The deer at Levens Hall were fortunate!

In the 100 Years Ago (December 31), Kendal Workhouse's usual Christmas dinner was roast beef and golden pudding.

Roast beef was usual for most (not turkey) then, but what was golden pudding?

Jeremy Godwin

Penrith