My heavy-based casserole pot sits on top of the stove even when it's not in use. It's covered in cooking stains, burnished marks that each tell a story...Vegetable laden curries, pot-roasted chicken complete with potatoes, cream and mustard, and slow-cooked lamb shanks have all added their splotches and splatters over time. In the early hours of the morning, at least once, if not twice a week she warms her insides up in the heat of the oven. Waiting patiently to cocoon the so

They are the final addition to my basket, their long, slender rosy-red stems balance on top of a beautiful snow-white cauliflower, a butternut pumpkin, locally grown potatoes, broccoli, long green beans and brussels sprouts. I enter the large shed at Hawkes farm; an Aladdin's cave of inspiring produce. My mind happily racing, concocting ideas as my hands pick up whatever catches my eye at the time. I invariably leave with my basket overflowing and find myself saying to the st