IT is around now that people start giving up on the New Year’s resolutions.

It is cold and dark outside, it is still winter and therefore still acceptable to throw on a giant coat that hides a multitude of calorie-like sins.

However, I am still going strong on my vow to only eat natural, or homemade foods as far as possible.

I did enjoy a scrumptious three-course meal at Clarence House Country Hotel, Dalton, but I know it was made using the finest ingredients - even pudding.

I even went out for a relaxing Sunday treat to The Bakehouse at Arnside, where I munched my way through a chocolate flapjack.

But again, this was OK because I knew where it was made and by whom. And this is why, for the first year ever, I am sticking to my resolution. For now anyway.

For more homemade goodies I could have headed to Grange Bakery, where there is a new treat on the shelves.

In an attempt to introduce more gluten-free to their offerings, you will now find a ‘Proper Lush Gluten-Free Orange Cake’ ready to buy at £1.50 slice.

The Honeypot, Hawkshead, are selling Claire’s Handmade products, including damson and apple chutney at £2.99 per 200g jar.

Witherslack Community Stores, would be great for that homemade cake fix if you do not have the time to make your own. There are plenty of locally-made varieties on offer, including chocolate, fruit, and flapjacks. Why not wash it down with homemade apple or damson and apple juice?

Low Sizergh, Kendal have some mouth watering frozen goods from Chapmans.

In packs of two, fish cakes are £3.99, crab cakes £4.20 and fish wellingtons, £4.15.

Plumgarths Farm Shop are offering 3lb of lean beef mince for £8.49, and braising steak packs at £11.99, also for 3lb. These would be lovely cooked in the tagine that my other half got for Christmas.

And Dales Butchers are preparing for Burns Night (Jan 25), with traditional haggis, special chilli haggis and haggis and black pudding slice - all £7.68 / kilo.