This week we find out that keeping ducks doesn’t have to be difficult, as Kate Green talks to some owners who maintain they are the funniest fowl of all. Elsewhere we learn to love the rain – well isn’t it time we tried here in Britain – and peer outside bravely, to discover what exactly is going screech in the night.

Plus what does it take to be a lady? Read our impeccable guide to ensure you aren’t falling short.

Our kitchen garden cook shares her recipes for grown up doughnuts and our ski special reports on the best food to be found on the slopes, from St Mortiz to Courmayeur. Plus we find some of the best ski properties for sale this winter.