Allotments: Demand for allotments is growing apace. Many are over-subscribed but some farmers on the edge of larger towns are beginning to offer allotments to rent.

Originally when oysters were cheap they would have been included in this recipe to stretch the meat. A delicious pie for an autumn dinner party.

Makes 12

One of my favourite easy entertaining tricks is to serve a selection of Irish artisan charcuterie from inspired producers like Fingal Ferguson and Frank Krawczyk from Schull, west Cork and James McGeough from Oughterard, County Galway.

Shoulder of pork is best for this long slow cooking method, as the meat is layered with fat which slowly melts away. Try to find a traditional breed, e.g. Gloucester Old Spot, Saddleback, Black Berkshire or Middle White.

The pastry is made by the creaming method so people who are convinced that they suffer from ‘hot hands’ don’t have to worry about rubbing in the butter.

Recipe for Irish Blueberry Drop Scones

Mushroom Hunt Sunday, October 5 in the grounds of Radisson SAS Farnham Estate, Cavan.

Pears, gooseberries, apricots, rhubarb and plums are also good and the custard could be flavoured with a little cinnamon instead of vanilla if you want to ring the changes.

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil