Broad Bean, Mint and Ricotta Bruschetta

EVER since Michelle Obama planted a vegetable garden on the South Lawn of the White House in March 2009 she has been a big hero of mine.

This action has sent a really strong message about the importance of fresh food and the joy of growing your own to families across America. It has raised the profile and awareness of local and sustainable food to an unprecedented level.

In a country where two thirds of the population are either overweight or obese and one-in-three children (one-in-two if your skin colour happens to be black) have diabetes, this message is particularly badly needed.