Like anybody else, athletes like to pig out on a bit of junk food every now and then, but they also know that they couldn't do that all the time if they wanted to keep their body in peak condition to compete at the highest level.

Food is fuel and it keeps us going just like a car needs petrol. When you're running a car it's important to think about what fuel you're putting in because if you put in the rough stuff, what's going to happen? The car's going to slow down and perform badly because you've neglected it.

Let's care and nurture our bodies. You are looking after something from a very early stage. Like a plant, you're giving it food and water and when it grows, look at the amount of buds it gives you. Every year it flourishes and comes back time and time again. Look after yourselves and don't be embarrassed about it.

One of the key things is to encourage people to have a go in the kitchen and not to be embarrassed by it. Try and spend a couple of nights a week cooking something up. It doesn't have to be complicated, it can be something really simple.

Be ready, be prepared, be alert and then everybody around you will notice and they will want to share their skills with you even more. You're showing that you're enthusiastic, you care and that you're dedicated. It's not always easy, but if you've got a passion and a desire to do something then your natural energy will get you through.

If you get vegetables in season, the difference is remarkable compared to vegetables that might have been imported. You can't beat fresh ingredients and seasonal fresh ingredients. There's nothing quite like the taste of a beautiful summer strawberry.

Cooking is a life skill. We need to eat every day so why not find out about what you're putting into your body?