Blend the yeast with 150 ml (5 fl oz) of the milk and sugar. Sift flour and salt, add butter, and rub into flour.

Stir in yeast mixture and sufficient milk to make a fairly soft dough.

Turn out onto a floured surface and knead thoroughly for 10 mins until dough is firm, elastic and no longer sticky. Place in a large bowl, cover with a clean tea towel and leave to rise in a warm place until doubled in size (1 - 2 hrs).

Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead well for 2 - 3 mins. Divide into 12 equal pieces and shape into rolls.

Place the rolls on greased baking sheets, spacing them well apart. Cover with tea towel and leave to prove until doubled in size. Cut slits in the top of each roll.

Bake for 15 - 20 mins until well risen and golden. 230°C/450°F/gas 8

As a finishing touch, sprinkle rolls with poppy seeds, wheat or bran before baking.