Steve Ott
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Boxes for birds
National Nest Box Week lets you contribute to conservation efforts whilst gaining the pleasure of observing any breeding birds. For bird-lovers, Valentine’s Day marks the start of National Nest Box Week. The aim of the week, which runs from February…
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Courgettes hit the headlines
courgettecrisis hashtag trending The past month has seen the dawning realisation amongst supermarket shoppers that vegetables do not, in fact, have a 12-month season, and that they are, unaccountably, subject to the weather. A ‘perfect storm’ of flooding, cold weather and…
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Early evidence of vegetarian cookery
A team of scientists has uncovered the earliest direct evidence of humans processing plants for food. Researchers at the Organic Geochemistry Unit in the University of Bristol’s School of Chemistry, working with colleagues in Italy, studied pottery dating from more…
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The great ‘Seeds for Bees’ giveaway: thousands of seed packets to be given away
With bee populations on the decline it has never been more important for us – as a nation – to come together to help our bee friends survive With bee populations on the decline it has never been more important…
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CREAMED SWEETHEART CABBAGE
This is a lovely winter dish and is an excellent accompaniment to baked fish or sausages. SERVES 2 Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes • 1 sweetheart cabbage • 30g/1oz butter • 2 tbsp plain flour • 250ml/9fl…
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SICILIAN CAULIFLOWER SALAD
Salads aren’t just for summer, you can get very creative experimenting with your winter veg too. This warm fragrant salad of cauliflower takes its inspiration from Sicily, and is lovely served for lunch or as a side dish. SERVES 4…
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Snowdrop Festival at Pinetum Park
The humble snowdrop also has some fascinating properties, such as improving sleep and treating those with Alzheimer’s disease. Galanthophiles and ‘Snowdrop Fanciers’ will love a visit to Pinetum Gardens to discover around 60 different types of Snowdrop, a winter flower…
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RHS seeks top school gardeners
Royal Horticultural Society is calling on Britain’s schools to enter the search to find the best of the next generation of horticulturists. With awards in three categories, the annual RHS School Gardeners of the Year celebrates green-fingered pupils, passionate school…
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National Trust launches £250k fundraising campaign to fix ‘broken’ paths in Snowdonia
The National Trust’s appeal is being supported by Hollywood actor Matthew Rhys. A quarter of a million pounds is urgently needed to repair ‘broken’ paths and restore wildlife habitats in Snowdonia, the National Trust has said. The conservation charity, which…
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LET’S ALL GO A WASSAILING
During the 1800’s, apples represented the Island’s largest export with up to a quarter of agricultural land in the Island given over to orchards. As cider started to wane in popularity and other beverages became available, the amount of apples…
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Thai Green Curry with Cauliflower
This aromatic vegetarian Thai green curry features this season’s best cauliflower. Full of flavour and simple enough for weeknight dinners. SERVES 4 Preparation time: 25 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes • 2 tbsp coconut oil • 200g/8oz tofu, cubed •…
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Roast Garlic, Mushroom & Nut Pate
This vegan pâté is sure to take your fancy, and is a speedy dish to prepare. It’s delicious on hot toast or crackers. SERVES4 Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes • 250g/9oz organic chestnut mushrooms, chopped roughly •…
