On 19 July 1896 AJ Cronin, the Scottish novelist, was born.

Cronin is most fondly remembered as the creator of the hugely popular character, Dr.Finlay. He also achieved acclaim as the author of the novels, The Keys to the Kingdom, The Stars Look Down and The Citadel.

The 19 July 1333 saw the Battle of Halidon Hill at Berwick, where an English army, led by Edward III and Edward Balliol, defeated the Scots forces under the command of Sir Archibald Douglas.

The defeat was mainly down to the English archers who devastated the Scottish ranks, inflicting terrible losses, including six earls, 70 barons and over 500 knights.

Today's recipe: herb and pepper chicken is a quick and easy meal for one.