Every year I have been in England the locals from all over the country have bragged about having the world's best fish and chips. Because of my general penchant to look after my health and waistline I have generally steered clear of the local cuisine of battered fish and soggy, fat-coated chips. As delicious as they may taste, and as much as I loved them in my younger, non-professional years, my discipline has generally gotten the better of me in an attempt to keep in decent shape.

All of these good intentions fell apart today as I finally succumbed to what I was promised would be the best fish and chips I have, and will, ever taste. I certainly wasn't disappointed as Bryan's world-renowned fish and chip shop in Leeds, Yorkshire, served up not only the tastiest, but also the biggest portion of jumbo haddock, chips and mushy peas that I have ever seen. Following connoisseur Phil Tufnell's advice, the mushy peas, a local delicacy, helped add colour to my plate of appetising goodies. Bright green slush of mashed-up peas are a must I was told, and after a little coaxing, I went the whole hog as they say, and enjoyed a most memorable feast. Washed down with cup of Yorkshire tea and a plate of bread and butter, this converted couch potato added a few kilos in a single sitting, and what a delight it was.

Dining with me tonight were a number of my Middlesex team-mates and Western Australian team-mate and good buddy Jamie Stewart, who is playing club cricket up in one of the Yorkshire leagues. It was great catching up with 'Stewie' who has recently decided to leave Perth and the WACA for more opportunities in Sydney. A fantastic one-day bowler in recent times and exceptional team man, he will be sadly missed by the Warriors in the future.

Taking up a senior management position with the publishing firm he works with, the opportunities will not only be cricket-related as he embarks on a fantastic new future on the east coast. As he is not only a great fella but also an afficionado of fine wine and food, I couldn't have picked a better companion on this night of culinary delight.

From Leeds, JL