It would seem to me that we need to start at 2pm on day 1, and not 2.30.
This allows for a 45 min break after level 6, so 6.45ish (assuming we start on time and have a 15 min break after level 3) thus allowing both dealers and players to partake of sustenance as they see fit. This would also see a normalish finishing time of 12.30/1am
It also allows for players to have a chat with newbies, as well as old friends, which is something that only seems to happen for those of us that know each other well. I am sure that newbies feel on the outside sometimes when they don"t really know anyone.
It might be nice for one or two of the more established members to do a "meet and greet" in the break to answer questions about APAT and also allow newbies to meet other newbies and start to form the types of friendships that many of us enjoy. I"m happy to start the ball rolling in Coventry, if it"s do-able.
The lack of a proper break has, imho, been a contributory factor to some friendships being lost, particularly when people bust early and decide to go home. At least with a decent break the APAT camaraderie can still flourish and hopefully numbers will increase as a result.