Wash and drain the lettuce leaves, peel and wash the carrot and onion, then wash the celery and tomatoes. On a cutting board slice and cube the cheese and place in a salad bowl then if using slice the gherkins thinly and place on top the cheese and continue by slicing the carrot, celery and onion. Toss the ingredients in the bowl gently until well mixed. Cut the tomato or tomatoes into sections and place in the bowl, then tear the lettuce into pieces and toss again. Just before serving add your favourite dressing and gently toss.