preheat oven to Gas mark 3, 160°C, 325°F

season flour, coat meat and fry in half oil until brown

transfer to casserole dish with raw carrots

add remaining oil to pan and fry onions and garlic for a few minutes

gradually add the stock and ale, then bring to the boil

add all ingredients except mushrooms. stir well and pour over beef and carrots

mix well, cover and put into oven for 1.5 hours

taste, adjust seasoning and add mushrooms

cook for a further half hour

remove bay leaf before serving