We Grow Our OwnThe trials and successes of life on our allotment

With all the current publicity about Britain holding the world record for the hottest chilli, you might have been bitten by the bug, and decided that you want to start growing your own chillies.

If you’re a regular reader of my blog, you’ll remember that I asked for your help in supporting the Dartmoor Chilli Farm, who were being blocked at every turn by planners in their attempt to make a living at their chilli farm in Dartmoor, and as a result, their business was under threat.

As you know, saying I like chillies is an understatement, and I would help support anything that boosts the UK chilli industry.

Although the current government are claiming that they are encouraging small businesses, Phil & Kay at the Dartmoor Chilli Farm, who I met originally on Twitter, are being blocked at every turn by planners in their attempt to make a living at their chilli farm in Dartmoor, and as a result, they need your help as their business is under threat.

If you’ve been reading my blog recently, you know that I was roped into entering the North East Chilli Jam Challenge.

As you know, I like all things chilli-related! I thought I’d start doing reviews of chilli-related products, so I could spread the word about the delicious stuff produced and is available from other chilliheads!

‘Dartmoor Real Ale and Chilli Chutney’ is from Phil and Kay at Dartmoor Chilli Farm, whose farm nestles in the beautiful National Park of Dartmoor. If you don’t know, Phil and Kay’s chilli farm is completely ‘off grid,’ so that means they rely on solar power at their farm.

You know I mentioned in one of my earlier posts that this year has been a little surreal, well it is good to know that nothing has changed!

Those people who are following me on Twitter will already know, that I have managed to win through two rounds of Britain’s Best Dish cooking my starter of Thai Spiced Mackerel With A Cucumber And Green Papaya Relish.

As you know, I like all things chilli related. I have a collection of chilli-related books, but The Complete Chilli Book is the one that I keep referring back to time and time again.

This year has been a little weird so far. First we got an allotment, then the chickens, then I won the competition to be Wahaca’s Chilli Guru.

However, the weirdest thing of all is that I have made my first appearance on TV!

A little while ago, I was lucky enough to be chosen as a contestant on ‘Britain’s Best Dish’ and I will be appearing on tomorrow night’s show on ITV at 5pm.