So what better way to raise money for a local cause than producing a recipe book filled with simple, homemade dishes that should not involve a loosening of purse strings.

Stradbroke Recipes (for all occasions) has been produced by the Friends of All Saints Church and features creations from soups and salads, to curries and cakes.

Stradbroke resident Toni Wisbey, who edited the book with Rev David Streeter and his wife Margaret, said: "We asked for recipes that used fresh ingredients, tasty things that people cook a lot and things that have been passed down through families.

"We also said that, if possible, the recipes should be economical – people are talking about how much they are spending on food."

The editing team also approached some local celebrities for their recipes.

Farmer and television star Jimmy Doherty has contributed a warming sausage dish and there is a recipe for ginger cake, courtesy of Delia Smith.

Unusual recipes were also welcomed, and the book features a chocolate cake made with beetroot, as well as a recipe for homemade dog biscuits.

"It's handy to have a small book to go to," said Mrs Wisbey.

"I have got lots of cookery books but I don't go to a fancy one when I am just cooking dinner and want something fast that works."

Stradbroke Recipes (for all occasions) is available from Stradbroke Post Office or the village rectory, priced £5.