1.Combine cucumber, shallots and salt in a medium stainless steel or glass bowl. Cover; stand 3 hours.
2.Drain, then rinse cucumber mixture; drain on paper towel. Spoon into hot sterilised jars.
3.In a medium saucepan, place vinegar and remaining ingredients; stir over high heat, without boiling, until sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil; remove from heat.
4.Pour enough hot vinegar mixture into jars to cover cucumber mixture; seal immediately. Label and date jars when cold.
Bottled pickles will keep for up to 2 months in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening. You can use a single variety of cucumber or a combination of cucumbers such as apple, baby and lebanese cucumbers.