Preheat oven to 200 deg C/400 deg F/Gas 6.

Line a 12 muffin tin with muffin cases or lightly coat with spray oil.

Sift together the whole wheat flour, plain flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

Mix in the natural bran.

Put the margarine in a microwave-safe jug and gently melt.

Mix in the light brown sugar, egg, and milk to the melted margarine.

Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients.

Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Do not overmix; the mix should look quite lumpy.

Fold in the chopped dried pears and golden raisins (sultanas).

Spoon the mixture into the prepared muffin tins, filling each about two-thirds full.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the muffins are well-risen and golden brown.

Cool the muffins on a wire rack before serving.