T & G Woodware Porridge Spurtle

This spurtle from T and G Woodware measures 28cm (11 inches) spurtle and is decorated with a Scottish thistle design.

The spurtle dates from around the fifteenth century and was originally a flat, wooden, spatula-like utensil, used for flipping oatcakes in a hot oven. Over time, this implement changed shape and began being used specifically for stirring porridge. It is similar to a wooden spoon, but the bowl of the spoon has been removed since a wide area could cause pressure and tear cooked oats apart. It looks like a fat wooden dowel, often with a contoured end to give the user a better grip.

Price: £2.99