Aggie MacKenzie’s Expert Tips…

OUR HOME AND CONSUMER EXPERT AGGIE MACKENZIE SHARES HER TOP P HOUSEHOLD TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS EACH WEEK

■ So often, apricots and plums look fabulous in the shop, then when you bite into them they’re as hard as neeps and tasteless. Poach gently until soft in a little water and honey with half a vanilla pod – you’ll be amazed at the transformation!

■ Bring a bit of order into your life with the Wham Studio Basket and Studio Pot Collections. Great for indoor plants or storage anywhere around the house, the pieces are attractive, well made and brilliant value. In various colours, prices start at £1.29; available from PLASTICBOXSHOP.CO.UK

■ Never chuck banana skins. Add them to your compost and once they break down they’ll add calcium, magnesium, sulphur and potassium to your soil. Can’t be bad!