WE are all familiar with celebrity chefs on TV showing us how to make the most delicious meals using the finest ingredients.But producers of a new cookery book are aiming to turn the kitchen clock back to the days when dining tables groaned under the weight of traditional English dishes like wholesome stew and dumplings and sherry trifle.

WE are all familiar with celebrity chefs on TV showing us how to make the most delicious meals using the finest ingredients.

But producers of a new cookery book are aiming to turn the kitchen clock back to the days when dining tables groaned under the weight of traditional English dishes like wholesome stew and dumplings and sherry trifle.

The rector of Fakenham, the Rev Adrian Bell, and two of his team, Jim Baldwin and Linda Frost, are seeking out the tried and tested recipes that have been handed down through families or have become particular family favourites.

They are collecting these recipes and a selection of the most interesting ones will be featured in a new book which is being published in conjunction with a flower festival at the church in October entitled A Victorian Experience.

As well as the main meal recipes, the team are also looking for recipes for traditional cakes, preserves and jams.

“We are hoping that people will delve into their kitchen drawers and search for old forgotten favourites that used to be made for their main meal of the day and for special occasions like family celebration parties,” said Mr Bell.

He added : “I know that people have had favourite recipes in their families and these are what we are looking for to give the recipe book a traditional family flavour. We are hoping that people will send in their recipes as soon as they can because we have a deadline for printing in June.”

People who would like to contribute recipes are asked to write out the recipe details in the form they would like to see it appear in the book and include a line or two about why it is a personal or family favourite.

The recipes should be sent to the Fakenham parish church office, Gladstone Road, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 9BZ, with envelopes marked 'flower festival cook book'.