Royal fruit scones

THE British love affair with biscuits goes back a long way. There are recorded uses of the word “biscuit” in Middle English as far back as the 14th century. It’s derived from the Latin bis coctus, mea

AS you enjoy your lunchtime sandwich, washed down with a cup of Earl Grey tea, and perhaps rounded off with a slice of Battenberg cake, you may not realise that you’re taking a bite out of history. Fo

Fill a hamper or cool bag and head for the great outdoors

Once an essential everyday ingredient – particularly in the north of the country – oats still have a special place in British storecupboards

Filled with almonds, cherries and sweet white chocolate for a moreish and tempting treat, this tasty traybake is simple to make. MAKES 12 SQUARES PREP 20 MINS COOK 30 MINS ✱ 200g unsalted butter ✱ 100

■ Serves 8 ■ Prep 15 mins plus cooling and setting ■ Cook 25 mins 1 tbsp mint leaves, pl s extra to decorate60g butter, melted, lus extra for the tin120g golden caster sugar2 ggs120g plain flour, sift