Britain stood in Nazi Germany’s way, but to remain undefeated the country had to call on reserves of mental strength and toughness it didn’t know it had. Ration Book Britain is the first in a series of themed programmes - to be broadcast across the year - which set out to celebrate the unique Spirit of 1940. The programmes will take viewers back in time 70 years to see what life was really like during the war years.

In a classic 1940s kitchen, Valentine uses the very same tips and tricks millions of housewives used to make what little food they had go a long way and taste delicious.

He’ll find that some recipes still have value today for people who want big flavour without a big bill, and he’ll also discover some recipes that are best left to the past. Rationing or no rationing, each dish Val cooks must be fit for the heroes of WWII because at the end of show he will host a meal for some very special invited guests.

With recipes and the stories behind them, Wartime Kitchen is the ultimate guide to living within your means, as well as posing the question: can modern day cooks learn anything from the Spirit of 1940?