COOKING is great fun for all the family, says professional rugby player, Hep Cahill.

The World has teamed up with Widnes Vikings as part of our Let’s Cook: Healthy Halton campaign.

First team players have offered to share their recipes and tips on how to keep fit.

In the coming weeks, we will be talking to Frank Winterstein, Kevin Brown, Gareth Hock and Danny Craven.

New Zealander Hep joined the squad last February and has settled into English life with his six-year-old daughter, Jada, and wife, Mel, who is expecting their second child any day.

He believes making dishes at home with your children is the best way to encourage them to eat fresh fruit and vegetables and develop a passion for tasty home cooking.

Hep, aged 26, said: “I was brought up on a farm so we always had lots of fresh food. I’ve always loved cooking.

“I think if you get the kids involved, even if it’s just peeling the potatoes, it’s more enjoyable.

“My daughter often comes home from school and we make something together. We might see a recipe and decide to have a go at it.”

Despite the British weather, he still enjoys cooking outdoors.

He said: “I get the barbie out every week. I cook a lot of fresh meat and vegetables.

“It doesn’t have to cost too much. Supermarkets stock the same things we have in New Zealand.

“I always buy fresh ingredients or what is in season.

“It is also easy to make stir fries. They are so much better for you than any bought dishes with artificial ingredients.”