Last year, whilst watching Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s Fish Fight campaign (and being an avid fish lover) I was shocked to discover that half of the fish caught in the North Sea are unnecessarily thrown back into the ocean dead due to EU laws. As well as signing up to the campaign here one easy way we can all help is to diversify our eating habits and expand the selection of the fish we eat. We are all familiar with cod, salmon and tuna however by trying some of the lesser known species of local fish whose stocks are not threatened by overfishing (and are often overlooked and thrown away due to lack of demand) we can all help out and enjoy some delicious meals at the same time!

The Little Hastings & Rye Cook Book 2 is perfect for those of us wanting to expand our fish repertoire with new recipes. Authors and Hastings locals Sally and Stewart Walton are fanatical about all things fishy and want to raise people’s awareness of the plight of their local fishing industry and encourage everyone to support their local fishing fleet and fishmongers by eating the catch of the day. Following on from the first book which was published two years ago and was a huge local success, the second offering is packed full of all new recipes, beautiful illustrations and has extended its reach to nearby Rye. Like the first book there are 50 recipes gathered from local residents, fishmongers and chefs, along with information on places to buy fresh fish and other tasty supplies. The book is scattered with handy tips and local anecdotes, perfect for fish fanatics like me needing some inspiration.

The book is available online from www.seasawbooks.co.uk and from selected book stores.