1. Peel the lemons thinly with a sharp knife. 2. Put the peel and sugar in a large jug or bowl, add the boiling water and stir well. 3. squeeze the lemons and add the juice and citric acid to the syrup. 4. Leave to cool then strain and bottle.

To make a drink dilute two tablespoons of syrup with soda water or carbonated mineral water. Garnish with slices of lemon and a sprig or two of mint, borage or lemon balm.