Autumn is signalled by so many changes, but for me, the one that always serves as the true indicator we have turned the corner into a new season is the light; that golden, flaxen coloured light that hits the hills of the Valley late in the afternoon. It’s as though golden syrup has been poured over every surface – it’s really no wonder to learn photographers refer to it as ‘magic light’. Food lovers will be equally enamoured by Autumn’s arrival, with an abundance of produce made all the more special because of their brief appearance; figs, quinces, pomegranates and lovely big field mushrooms to name a few. This ‘special appearance’ produce makes it an easy decision to return to the kitchen after months of weather too hot to contemplate the stove.