"For me, the days around Christmas are perfect for informal parties around the table or tables, sometimes guests spill into another room."

This week I’m mulling over possible starters for the Christmas feast - something light, lovely, tantalisingly fresh and easy to serve.

A juicy steak or roast rib of dry-aged beef with three sauces — maybe horseradish, aioli, and béarnaise — is irresistible

Plus: The honour I received from MTU is a tribute to the many cooks, teachers, and farmers who continue to inspire me.

Homemade pasta takes time but is worth the wait

"I have to say I was properly impressed by the quality and have since sent in an order for several items to stock in our little Farm Shop, in Shanagarry."

"There were master classes, foraging walks and many delicious seasonal meals hosted by Richard and his guest chefs, all held at Virginia Park Lodge, Richard’s Irish country house hotel and estate in County Cavan."

"For me, they are not a bother, I love the challenge, a brilliant opportunity to have fun in the kitchen concocting some new combinations and some much loved traditional dishes."

I wonder how on earth Jamie does it? Book number 30 with an accompanying TV series, Eat Yourself Healthy has just been launched. 

"Don’t we all wish that there was some magic pill we could take to boost our brain power, improve our memory and prevent cognitive decline?"