Dick goes for a novel method of rolling pastry

Blackberries, just ripe, are lining the hedgerows, and it's the perfect time of year to head out with a basket, pick a few handfuls, and use them to transform an apple crumble into a beautiful seasonal pudding. If you've been following the exciting events of Celebrity Masterchef you'll know that Dick Strawbridge narrowly missed out on first place, despite finishing with a sublime-looking rhubarb and ginger crumble tart, another twist on the classic favourite. Have a go at something really special with Dick's recipe, courtesy of BBC food. Congratulations to Lisa Faulkner who scooped the title – clearly, laying into a pig's head in the name of charcuterie deserves admiration. Still, gastronomic adventures with Dick are in high demand at Newhouse Farm near Fowey in Cornwall, home of the Eco Gypsy Caravan. There are currently places available so if you're heading south later this year, don't miss the opportunity to benefit from his expertise.

You can find details of Dick's courses here on the Eco Gypsy Caravan page, under 'Things to Do' and at his site, www.practicalselfsufficiency.co.uk. You may have caught a glimpse in the Saturday Times magazine [subscription required] of Dick and James Strawbridge's new book, Practical Self-Sufficiency: The Complete Guide to Sustainable Living. Guests staying in the Eco Gypsy Caravan could always take a signed copy home to increase their self-sufficiency by applying those all-important changes to everyday life. Actions can be as small as drawing your curtains at dusk, closing the fridge while you ponder what to make for dinner, and turning lights off when you leave a room – or if you're really keen, learn how to make your own biodiesel on another of the courses at Newhouse Farm. The book's also available to order here so you don't have to go all the way to Fowey – though if you found yourself sitting on the step of the caravan enjoying some evening sun and watching the free range chickens scratch happily beneath the willows, we're sure you wouldn't regret it if you did...