THE eccentric electrician who has gone without power at his York home for 26 years, was shown how to cook a slap-up Christmas dinner - using only his coal fire.

Richard Checksfield, who lives an 18th century-like existence in an isolated bungalow near Dunnington, was given the festive feast by top York chef John Egan, for a seasonal edition of BBC's Look North.

The 70-year-old has been a qualified sparky for 55 years, yet chooses to read by candlelight, keep warm beside a large coal fire and wash in cold rainwater.

Installing electricity in his home would cost more than £6,000 - which he says is too expensive.

John, who is head chef at Rish restaurant in Fossgate, descended on the powerless bungalow to show Richard how to make a dinner of turkey, mashed potato and parsnips, using only the fire.

The bungalow was decorated with Christmas decorations to add to the festive flavour.

"It was a big challenge," Mr Egan said.

"Richard simply doesn't have any cooking facilities apart from the coal fire - it was absolutely freezing, but he doesn't seem to mind.

"Cooking doesn't get any more basic, but it was good fun.

"I wrapped the turkey and parsnips in foil and put them into the centre of the fire to cook.

"The mash was made by placing some baked potatoes in the embers.

"It went really well and Richard soon wolfed it all down - he loved it."

The meal was topped off with a tantalising bowl of berries and cream.

Richard, who stores rainwater in a giant tub outside his house which he uses for washing himself and his clothes, said: "The food was really delicious."

"I've picked up some decent tips."

Maria Abu Rish, who runs Rish restaurant with her husband, Sam, said: "Richard was over the moon - particularly with the wine we took him!"

Updated: 11:16 Friday, December 21, 2001