Step by step method

1. Combine all ingredients except condensed milk, nuts and cherries in a heavy-based saucepan. Mix with a wooden spoon.
2. Use a pastry brush with water to wash sugar granules from the sides of the saucepan.
3. Cover with a lid and boil slowly for 5 minutes. Stir in the condensed milk and bring to the boil, stirring.
4. Once boiling, stop stirring and boil uncovered for 20 - 30 minutes until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (115°C) when tested in ice water and changes colour to golden brown.
5. Cool for 6 - 7 minutes and then stir with a wooden spoon until fudge thickens.
6. Add nuts and cherries and quickly spread the mixture into a 25 x 25 cm greased baking tray.
7. Cut into blocks before it is too hard.