A traditional food is making a comeback as shoppers ride the credit crunch.

Hucclecote butcher Rod Creese has recognised a stark increase in sales of faggots as people tighten their purse strings.

The savoury blend of minced pork, liver and herbs which has figured on shopping lists for decades, is now making a comeback.

Creese Bros Butchers Ltd's 13-year-old recipe has always proved popular with customers, but manager Mr Creese has noticed a significant boost in sales recently.

He said: "I would say that we have been selling more, most definitely.

"I think a mixture of there being a credit crunch and the fact that we are having our first proper winter in years has led to more sales. Faggots are a classic winter meal.

"They are a cheaper alternative to other cuts of meat.

"They cost around 50p each for a five ounce faggot, and two would be a substantial meal."

It was said that a tray of faggots left in the oven too long started the Great Fire of London in 1666.