Break bread into small pieces and place in a mixing bowl.

Pour over the milk and leave to soak for 30 minutes, then beat out the lumps with a fork to form a smooth mixture.

Add the fruit, mixed peel, sugar, suet, spice and egg and mix well.

Pour the mixture into a greased 18cm square tin, smooth the top and sprinkle with nutmeg if liked.

Bake at 180C/350F/Gas 4 for about 1 to 1.5 hours until browned. Cool in the tin.

Cut the pudding into squares and sprinkle with caster or icing sugar. Alternatively serve hot with custard or cream.