Following a summer of picnics and alfresco dining, culinary enthusiasts may be feeling inspired to try their hand at making some of the delicacies they sampled during the warm weather.

Author of First Preserves: Chutneys Vivien Lloyd explained how Chutney's are a great place to start for those who are starting out in the world of preserves.

"You need to get some basic principles and basic skills. You don't want to go into it to try and do something quite complex," Ms Lloyd remarked.

She explained how it is best to follow traditional recipes that have been "tried and tested over the years" and begin with the basics.

Ms Lloyd advised against using recipes found on the internet and explained how simple directions that recommend putting everything together in a pan should be avoided.

Instead, the expert claimed keeping some ingredients back and adding them during the cooking process will help to ensure great flavours and colours are achieved.

However, for those who would prefer to eat rather than make chutney, why not try the preserves found in Regency's extensive collection of hampers.