TV chef Ainsley Harriott was in the city to sign copies of his book, Just Five Ingredients, at Waterstone's, in Bridge Street on Thursday (9 July).

The Ready Steady Cook host said how important it was for people cook healthy food – and how his new book made it easy to cook tasty treats and delicious dinners with just a handful of ingredients.

Mr Harriott said: "A lot of people have a fear of going in the kitchen and facing a big pile of ingredients.

"This book has lots of great ideas that are suitable for all tastes, from fish and meat to puddings and vegetarian dishes."

Mr Harriott is also known as a barbecue expert, and gave city sun lovers a few tips for the perfect barbecue.

He said: "The key is preparation, and making sure you don't overstretch yourself.

"Chicken can get quite dry, but if you season it first, and flatten it out, you can keep it nice and moist.

"There is also nothing wrong with starting things off in the oven, before finishing them on the barbecue. It is all about the experience of eating outside, and if you can make that experience easier then it can only be better."

And as the Ashes gets into full swing, Mr Harriott provided some inside information into how the series could be won by England.

He used to be the head chef at Lord's cricket ground – where the second Test will be played – and he said the match at the home of cricket will be the key for England's chances.

He said: "Australia always win at Lords, but I think if England can get a result there it will be a big psychological boost, and they can go on and win the series comfortably."

And the celebrity chef also remembered an early taste of fame on one of Britain's best loved sit-coms.

He starred as a chief Gelf in a 1993 episode of Red Dwarf, and he described the experience as one of the highlights of his career.

He said: "It was fantastic to be able to take part in a show like that.

"As soon as you walked onto the set there was such a buzz – the writers were brilliant.

"The only problem is that I had so much make up on that no one ever recognises me."

Dozens of Ainsley fans queued outside the store to meet the star, including Jessica Edwards (22) of Rosetree Drive, March. She said: "I grew up watching him on TV, so I wanted to come and meet him.

"He is such a vibrant character, and I love his recipes."

Just Five Ingredients, published by Ebury Press, costs £12.99.