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® COUNTY LIFE MAGAZINE BedfordshireWINTER ISSUE 2020
BROMHAM - on the cover
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If you can’t wait to advertise in our next edition we can upload your advert to our latest online e-edition of Bedfordshire County Life. Simply email Great Escapes - Down your way Following in royal footsteps, [email protected] Bromham delights many who visit County Life observes the this village to admire its impressive attractions of the Heritage Coast. ancient bridge and beautiful restored mill. Grand Days Out Aspects of County Life Whitstable... County Life A WINTER’S WALK: Running across recalls this coastal Bedfordshire, from Leighton Buzzard to delight. Synonymous with £3.25 Gamlingay, the Greensand Ridge is the county’s main longest distance walk. oysters, Pip, Squeak and Winter is the ideal time to follow it. Wilfred and Peter Cushing!
Down Your Way • Aspects of County Life • History & Heritage • County Connections • The County Gardener • Wildlife • New Books • Lifestyle • Seasonal Features • Grand Days Out • Great British Traditions • A Picture of England • The Short Story • New Homes DECEMBER SALE FIRST WORD Your Winter Edition
Hello and welcome to your winter edition of County Life.
This time last year, nobody could have imagined that 2020 would have such an impact on society. As every New Year approaches, and we bid a farewell to the previous one, we trust that it will deliver health, happiness and a degree of fulfilment for personal dreams and aspirations. As 2021 dawns, let’s hope that the newly announced vaccine against Covid-19 will enable us to return to the way of life we had perhaps taken for granted.
It has been an absolute joy to put this issue together. The support from readers, contributors and advertisers alike has proved to be a great source of encouragement, especially during such a bleak period and, as always, I hope that you enjoy reading this edition’s eclectic content.
Down Your Way returns to one of my all-time favourite villages. Bromham has a wealth of history and heritage and is well worth a visit. If you need an excuse to get out, then walking the Greensand Ridge will provide the perfect challenge and our article ‘A Winter’s Walk’ by Isobel Murdoch provides an insight in to this trail.
Aspects of County Life include the following: The Friendly Enemy and Sundays Long Gone; both absorbing reads from contributor Michael Dundrow. For those gardeners among you, we have our regular advice from Peter Dean. Grand Days Out features Suffolk, and we escape to Whitstable; home to much more than just oysters! Other regulars include British Traditions; Nature Notes; The Short Story by Jill Sheldon, and, to conclude, A Picture of England.
I am looking forward to my editorial journey during 2021. I trust that the New Year will be a one which brings new hope for us all.
In the meantime, keep safe and enjoy your winter edition of County Life! an Al
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DEAR COUNTY LIFE ...
THE COVID EFFECT ...
Covid-19 has certainly made many people re-evaluate life. I am one of those who were most certainly affected by lock down earlier this year. The subsequent change in social activities has also had an affect on my life with shielding impacting my daily routine; a routine and a way of life I had taken for granted. Earlier this year, with time on my hands, and a life time of memories to recall, I started to write a series of articles based on my recollections of growing up in my birth town of Letchworth and my early working life in and around the counties of Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire; the latter where I have now retired to. I must also add that I was inspired to take this route having read so many of your readers’ personal recollections, which have been published in County Life during the past few years and since I have been subscribing to your wonderful magazine.
Mr Richard Willow - Somersham From the editor... I look forward to reading your contributions and sharing them with our readers!
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When I reflect back on the last 20 years of my life, I do so Have your say - make a with a mixed bag of emotions. comment or recommendation. I had just parted company with my teenage years, and was
Our ‘Pen-ultimate’ enjoying my independence and first real wage packet, which I communication will receive one could spend in an eclectic high street, full of independent year’s subscription to either our traders. I could use cash to pay for my purchases and say Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire or good morning to complete strangers, without being Cambridgeshire editions; also considered odd. I wouldn’t think twice about answering a redeemable as a gift phone call from an unknown number either. subscription to a friend if Twenty years on, the one good thing I still enjoy, and which preferred! has remained true to its core values, is the content of my favourite magazine. No prize for guessing which one I’m
referring to! Keep up the good work County Life. The seasonal photo - Credit: Trang Pham. If you have a seasonal snap you’d like to submit, email it to [email protected] Russell Good (Images submitted for consideration must be offered free of copyright and license and your own work) Stevenage
4 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 5 EDITOR: Alan Humphreys - [email protected] SALES: Lesley-Ann Humphreys - [email protected] Published by County Life Magazines (Select Publishing), PO Box 32, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 8TE A look inside PROUDLY INDEPENDENT, SINCE 1998 www.countylifemagazines.co.uk - Tel: 01462 81 94 96 LIFESTYLE winter 2020 ISSUE 90 REGULARS
16 • ASPECTS OF COUNTY LIFE A Winter’s Walk - Greensand Ridge
20 • FROM THE ARCHIVES The Friendly Enemy 31 bromham • UNDER THE HAMMER 16 Cars and Classics on the cover 34 • COUNTY GARDENER y and all moral rights in such text, photography images. Front cover image copyright Alan Humphreys 2010 Colours, perfumes, harvest and prep irrevocable, non-exclusive right and licence to use, reproduce modify, modify, non-exclusive right and licence to use, reproduce irrevocable, 37 • BRITISH TRADITIONS 34 A little of what we love publisher ose of the editor and should not be taken as such proprietors, 38 • GREAT ESCAPES The attraction of the Heritage coast
40 • GRAND DAYS OUT Whitstable... more than oysters 42 • NATURE NOTES 10 The fashion for ‘wilding’ 48 • SHORT STORY down your way 31 Time to relax and unwind 50 • THE LAST WORD A picture of England Bromham SPECIAL 24 • SUNDAYS LONG GONE FEATURES Michael Dundrow, his mother HISTORY ASPECTS OF SUBSCRIBE and 3-year-old sister were editions and assert in future and waive an and to re-publish developed, unless otherwise directed nology now known or hereafter
40 grant Select Publishing a perpetual, royalty-free © 2020 Select Publishing. Contributors automatically and hereby ntents remain HERITAGE 38 • FOLLOWING IN ROYAL FOOTSTEPS 16 evacuated from London’s East BEDFORDSHIRE LIFE aterial submitted is sent entirely at the owners risk. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily th in this magazine are at the owners risk. The views and opinions expressed aterial submitted is sent entirely End during the Blitz. Aged just 10 • BEDFORDSHIRE 12, Michael settled in with a Running across Bedfordshire, the HAS A CLUSTER OF friendly family of farmers and Greensand Ridge forms a line of JEWELS IN ITS CROWN: quickly became absorbed in their Visitors to Bromham won’t sandy hills overlooking clay vales, way of life; one which he recalls fail to be impressed by its an area of conifer forest and with such vivid detail and medieval bridge. During scattered heathland. fondness in his article ‘Sundays Bromham’s early years, the Long Gone’. 38 river, which powered the 16 • A WINTER’S WALK GRAND DAYS OUT... REVISITED Subscribe to Bedfordshire’s Whitstable... charm, culture and history mill, was full of wildlife, Many of the place names along the Greensand Ridge recall the longest established traditional including eels, which were area’s light soil - Rammamere Heath, Millbrook Warren, Sandy county magazine for JUST £23 A YEAR 40 • WHITSTABLE. exported as far as London. Warren. Detailed route leaflets for this walk are available, and A quarterly miscellany of CONTRIBUTORS Synonymous with oysters, Pip, Squeak and Wilfred, Today, Bromham Mill, set bright, clear winter days are an ideal time to follow the Ridge. Bedfordshire life, home Peter Dean - Michael Dundrow interest, days out and lifestyle Alan Humphreys - Isobel Murdoch the Crab and Winkle Railway and Peter Cushing, in seven acres of water Our walk begins in Leighton Buzzard and concludes in the in the county and beyond. W&H Peacock - Jill Sheldon - Tim Sharrock 24 Whitstable has become a favourite spot in the meadows, is rich in bird Cinques Common Nature Reserve in the hamlet of Gamlingay See page 36 and editor cannot be held responsible for any statements or views expressed editorially within the content of this magazine. Co for any statements or views expressed and editor cannot be held responsible and distribute such text, photography images into any form, medium or tech derivative works from publish, translate, create hearts and minds of all who visit the town. and plant life. Cinques, outside the larger village of Gamlingay. All m in whole or part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Reproduction All rights reserved.
6 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 7 COUNTY LIFE MATTERS COUNTY LIFE MATTERS
Quantum Care will open a new Care Home Bedfordshire baker honoured Sue Ryder launches second urgent fundraising appeal of 2020 IN BIGGLESWADE AS PART OF ITS FUTURE STRATEGY IN TIPTREE WORLD BREAD AWARDS HERO IN NOVEMBER 2020, SUE RYDER, WHICH RUNS SUE RYDER ST JOHN’S HOSPICE IN BEDFORDSHIRE, WAS FORCED TO
ONE OF HERTFORDSHIRE’S SHEILA PLEDGER, a pensioner LAUNCH ITS SECOND URGENT FUNDRAISING APPEAL OF THE YEAR IN RESPONSE TO THE HUGE IMPACT THE LARGEST CARE PROVIDERS who runs a family bakery in CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC HAS HAD ON THE CHARITY. Quantum Care will expand into Kempston Bedford, was “We know that times are tough for everybody at Bedfordshire in 2021. The site on recently declared runner up in the moment, so please be reassured that every bit London Road in Biggleswade will be the Tiptree World Bread Awards really does help and thank you very much from all of developed into a 76-bed care home that Heroes with Brook Food for East us.” will provide long-term residential care England, in a special online The Local Data Company To support Sue Ryder visit: and specialist dementia care for elderly © awards evening. sueryder.org/winterappeal20 people in and around the town, as well Throughout lockdown, Sheila managed to keep Pledgers, the family as having provision for short stays, respite breaks and convalescence. bakery she has run for fifty years, open 6 days a week, starting at The new facility will also create new employment opportunities including 5.30am every morning. apprenticeships and development programmes for those looking to pursue a ‘It has been kept open with only her serving behind the counter all career in the care sector. during lockdown, and she is in her eighties and finds it difficult to Quantum Care provides specialist care for elderly people including those living stand and move, but she is always cheerful, asking how everyone is.’ with dementia. The not for profit care provider has been in operation for over 27 said Elizabeth Webster, one of her nominators. ‘Sheila employs local years providing a range of care services to over 2000 people. people, and I have not known a day when the bakery has been closed, save for her husband’s funeral.’ Xtra Xmas Lights In normal times, the Awards celebrate the bread; hundreds of loaves would be delivered for assessment by a panel of esteemed judges. THANKS TO BedfordBID Instead, in a special edition for 2020, the Awards recognise the DESPITE THE DIFFICULTIES OF people behind the loaves: the bakers, millers and farmers. THE CHARITY IS EXPERIENCING A *£2MILLION A MONTH 2020, business organisation, Hundreds of nominations for the Bread Heroes were sent in from SHORTFALL, whilst its doctors and nurses continue to play a vital part in BedfordBID, has ensured that the town across the UK. ‘All the nominees in this year’s Awards truly deserve the Coronavirus effort. is a sparkling seasonal sight this recognition for their generous, considerate and often altruistic To help, Sue Ryder made an appeal to people in Bedfordshire and Christmas. initiatives to help others.’ said Stephen Hallam, Chairman of the the surrounding areas to support its urgent fundraising campaign ‘We BedfordBID, which represents 100s of Judges. can’t stop’ so that Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice can continue to provide shops, restaurants and offices in 12 regional winners were selected by the judging panel. One of the the expert and compassionate end of life care and bereavement support Bedford, has been adding every year to judges, Emma Freud, Executive Producer Comic Relief, said, ‘These it is so well known for. its range of “Love Bedford” nominees were so well found - each of them have done remarkable Allison Mann, Xtra Xmas lights and include lamppost things for their communities, using their talent with bread to make life Hospice Director at Sue lights in: St Cuthberts Street; Mill easier for people who need support. It was a seriously tough choice, Ryder St John’s Hospice, Street; Harpur Street; Tavistock but I am confident we got the right winners…’ said: “Coronavirus has hit Street/The Broadway; St Peters Street; An exhibition of portraits by photographer Henry Kenyon of the 12 Bread us hard. We received a St Peters Street garden trees and Heroes will be touring the UK, including a display at the City Food wonderful response from Howard Street street trees AND the large, real Christmas tree outside Lecture 2021, the annual lecture on the future of the food industry, our supporters to our Clinton Cards adorned with twinkly lights. organised by the seven food-related City of London livery companies. emergency appeal in April In addition businesses themselves are mak- 2020. This, paired with the Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice has been providing care to people in ing an extra special effort this year such as emergency funding that Bedfordshire for over 40 years. Its expert and compassionate palliative Michael R. Peters in The Broadway and the Bedford based charity ready to support we received from the care and bereavement support is delivered in both its inpatient unit in Riverside complex of restaurants and bars MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL WELLBEING government, covered our funding shortfall until the end of June. Moggerhanger and in people’s own homes as part of its Palliative Care “Unfortunately however, our struggle Hub and via outpatient day appointments and services. (left). OF CHILDREN IN LOCAL PRIMARY SCHOOLS. Latest information of ‘what’s on/open and continues. Our fundraising events remain Located in Moggerhanger, Bedfordshire, the hospice provides expert when’ can be found on MAKING ME (formally The Mind Map Charity) has launched its new cancelled for the rest of this year and our palliative care, advice and support for people who are living with www.lovebedford.co.uk which is being website this month and is inviting teachers and parents to look at high street shops were forced to close for life-limiting conditions, as well as supporting their families. updated daily. the support that the charity offers. The aim of the charity is to teach a second time in the second national Its expert team includes doctors, nurses, care assistants, children to thrive, by equipping schools with the resources to lockdown. physiotherapists, occupational and complementary therapists, social support children’s mental and emotional wellbeing. The charity “As we head into the winter months workers and bereavement support workers. They all work seamlessly Wanted: Greensand Champions offers resources online and through classroom workshops and coronavirus cases continue to rise together to support people through the most difficult times of their lives. MAKING POSITIVE ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE IN GREENSAND COUNTY presented by Making Me facilitators that help to develop emotional we are expecting an increase in people The hospice was rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CHARITY The Greensand Trust in partnership with literacy and build resilience. The charity offers a whole school needing end of life care. Commission in November 2019. Greensand Country is putting the "Green into Greensand" and looking for approach to pupil wellbeing which starts with an inset to all school “None of us expected this pandemic For more information on the care and services given by Sue Ryder Greensand Champions - groups or individuals who are doing something amazing staff and includes workshops to pupils from Reception to Year 6. to go on for so long and clearly a monthly St John’s Hospice and to find out how you can support the charity visit for the Greensand Country environment, and want to hear what people are doing The charity aims to deliver its workshops for free at the point of shortfall of £2 million is unsustainable for www.sueryder.org/stjohns and give them the recognition they deserve as our ‘Greensand Champions’. delivery to schools but does rely on school fundraising as well as any charity, which is why we need to ask Images: Sue Ryder Nurses, care and support teams have been working Greensand Champions will receive a digital certificate and be entered into the sector funding and is grateful to The Harpur Trust for the financial the public to help us. tirelessly throughout the pandemic to continue giving their expert and Greensand Champions digital ‘Hall of Fame’ to inspire others. The first 100 support it has recently provided. “Sue Ryder St John’s Hospice is compassionate palliative care to local families at Sue Ryder St John’s applications will also be able to collect a free Greensand Champions seed bomb In these particularly challenging times, the wellbeing of our children playing a vital part in the Coronavirus effort – all of the staff here want to Hospice (top left). This winter, they want to continue giving this vital care, as a reward. Applications or nominations for the 2020 Greensand Champions is more important than ever and Making Me sincerely hopes that use their skills, expertise and experience to help patients and their whilst continuing to relieve pressure on the NHS, but to do so the scheme must be submitted by end January 2021. Full details of the scheme schools will get in touch to see how the charity can help. families in the months ahead as well continue to relieve the pressure on Sue Ryder charity needs to urgently secure more funding. including many examples of what makes a Greensand Champion and Please find Making Me at www.makingme.org.uk the NHS. However, in order to keep our services running through the application/nomination form at: www.greensandtrust.org/greensand-champions Or contact: [email protected] winter and beyond we urgently need to secure more funding now. *Correct at date of publication
8 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 9 DOWN YOUR WAY
Bromham A Picturesque Village
During Bromham’s early years, the river, which powered the mill, was full of wildlife, including eels, which were a valuable currency at the time, and these Ouse eels were exported as far as London. Today, Bromham Mill, set in seven acres of water meadows, is rich in bird and plant life.
by
Alan Humphreys
ost visitors who was collected from anyone take time to stop a crossing the bridge. Also it is M while at Bromham recalled that, in 1281, a severe will be familiar with its frost damaged Biddenham twenty-six-arched medieval Bridge (as it was then known), bridge. First recorded in which gave way, with a local 1224, it affords picturesque woman being swept away and views over the river Great presumed to have drowned. Ouse. The bridge we journey The mill by the side of over today was built in 1813 Bromham Bridge is of brick and has twenty-one arches, of structure and, on one stone, which four sit in the parish built into one of the door of Bromham, with the jambs, can be found the date remaining arches situated in 1695. Another stone, on the the parish of Biddenham. outside, is dated 1722. The inviting image of There is mention in the Bromham Mill, which is in history books that, during the working order, has attracted 14th and 15th centuries, a toll many visitors. Situated at the continued on page 12 PHOTO STORY - ABOVE: Bromham is a delightful village with a varied and interesting history and provides the ideal location for a gentle afternoon walk - perhaps stopping off at one of the local pubs.
Photo: copyright 2010 Alan Humphreys
10 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 11 DOWN YOUR WAY
continued from page 10 west end of the bridge, the mill was in village sign with the backdrop of the Swan existence at the Domesday Survey of Inn. Dating from 1798, the sign used to 1086, in which Bromham is mentioned mark the parish boundary between as Bruneham and later as Brimeham. Bromham and Kempston. A pleasant sight For many centuries the majestic for most walkers along this road are the waterwheel was turned by the power of pretty thatched cottages that look very the river Great Ouse but, during the cosy on a winter’s evening. 1920s, just before the demise of this In 1740 a library was donated to St. technology, a steam engine was installed Owen’s church containing many important to provide extra power. Since its historical books; the oldest dating from restoration, the wheel, once again, the 16th, and extending to the 19th, revolves at a sedate pace. However, that century. These days, the library is safe in wasn’t always the case. the collection of the county archives, but During Bromham’s early years, the the collection was almost destroyed in river not only powered the mill but was 1888, when St Owen’s church took a also full of wildlife, including eels, which direct hit during an electrical thunder were a valuable currency at the time and storm, which caused a great deal of were exported as far afield as London. damage. There was a blacksmith’s shop next door Evidence of the library still exists on to the mill and pigs were reared on Image top: The ancient, and much the wall of St Owen’s where a plaque apples provided by fruit from the nearby admired, Bromham Mill. states, “No book to be taken out without orchard, not to mention the sweepings of Image above: In celebration of Her the leave of the Minister or Lord of the grain and flour. These days, Bromham Majesty, Queen Elizabeth’s Golden Manor”. Mill, set in seven acres of water Jubilee. In 1824, occupying almost 6,229 meadows, is rich in bird and plant life. Photos: copyright 2010 acres, Bromham Hall was synonymous A short distance from the mill is the Alan Humphreys with the ownership of the village and was continued on page 14 12 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk DOWN YOUR WAY
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www.tringmarketauctions.co.uk The Market Premises, Brook Street, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5ED t: 01442 826446 e: [email protected] continued from page 12 the sixth largest estate in Bedfordshire. Bromham Hall and the village itself then passed down through the Trevor lineage to Miss Elianore Rice Trevor, youngest daughter of the Fourth Baron of Dynevor, George Rice, during the 19th century. Remembered as a matriarchal character who took care of almost three hundred villagers, Miss Rice Trevor was certainly a strong woman with a dominating presence, but she was also extremely caring to the locals and reportedly provided baby clothes to new mothers as well as other gifts of food and thereby protecting it, despite one of the five clothing to the villagers at Christmas planned houses being built. In 1938, the time. It is also recalled that she sold coal passing of a covenant sealed the park’s fate. As at half price, and handed out soup on Image top: A very pretty a result, visitors and locals can still walk this Fridays. In 1861, she opened a school vista. The river Great Ouse has been a source of power ancient land and, although the hall remains for girls, supplying them with their for many centuries. privately owned, thanks to the Skinner family’s winter and summer uniforms. Image centre: One of many consent, all are free to experience the park and When Bromham Hall was sold in pockets of natural beauty to church, including the Bromham Heritage Trail. 1924, the new owners didn’t acquire the be found in Bromham. Bromham is undoubtedly a one of the village of Bromham with the purchase. jewels in Bedfordshire’s crown, delighting many This meant that Bromham Park was in Photos: copyright 2010 Alan Humphreys who visit the village to admire its impressive danger from development, which would ancient bridge and the restored mill. have destroyed the Park. Luckily, providence came in the form of Mr. R. Skinner, who purchased the land, Article last published issue 50, Autumn 2010
14 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk ASPECTS OF BEDFORDSHIRE LIFE
Crossing the A5 - once the Romans’ As you enter the village of As you cross the gusty, high ridge Watling Street - picture the Roman Millbrook, St Michael’s church marks here you will come to the ruins of A WINTER’S WALK legions marching northwards, maybe to one of the walk’s highest points, around Houghton House, built in 1615 for Mary spend a harsh winter patrolling Hadrian’s 350 feet above sea level. From here con- Sidney, Countess of Pembroke, sister of following the Greensand Ridge. Wall in sleet and hail. tinue past Ossory Farm into Ampthill the soldier-poet Philip Sidney. Inigo Entering the village of Woburn, Park, the former site of Ampthill Castle. Jones is believed to have designed the mainly rebuilt in the wake of a serious Pause by Katherine’s Cross, erected striking, turreted house, later dismantled Running across Bedfordshire from Leighton Buzzard in the south-east to Gamlingay in the fire in the 18th century, it has attractive in 1773, and imagine Queen Katherine by the Duke of Bedford. northeast, the Greensand Ridge forms a line of sandy hills overlooking clay vales, an area of buildings and roads to explore, whether of Aragon exiled to this exposed castle, Descending the hill from King’s conifer forest and scattered heathland. the Town Hall in the very centre, or built by the uncle of Henry V. A line on wood, you will enter the village of Bedford Street with Old St Mary’s and the Cross calls this the ‘mournful refuge Maulden, where the Ailesbury by the Tudor school. Imagine the funeral of an injured Queen’. You will also see Mausoleum was built in 1656 by the 1st Isobel Murdoch procession of Queen Eleanor winding another cross, erected to commemorate Earl of Elgin, once owner og Houghton slowly through Woburn one winter’s day the Park’s time as a First World War camp. House. As you leave Maulden you will in December 1290, spending the night in the Abbey. One of the famous Eleanor Crosses was erected to commemorate the event, but no sign remains. Woburn’s fortunes have long been interwoven with Woburn Abbey, which has a long history spanning more than eight hundred years. The walk crosses the 3,000 are Deer Park, landscaped by Humphrey Repton. You will soon reach the scattered village of Eversholt, where the church of St John the Baptist was restored by the 19th century architect George Gilbert Scott, who built and restored many public buildings nationwide. Winter may seem a quiet time with many creatures hibernating and plants dormant, but there are always signs of life in nature. You might see animal footprints in the mud, or more clearly in snow: maybe the prints of a muntjac any of the place names along You may also see Leighton Buzzard’s the Port of London. Although canals were deer, the symbol of the walk. At dusk the Ridge recall the area’s light narrow-gauge railway, built a hundred in decline by the 1830s, many have been large flocks of starlings, Jackdaws and M soils - Rammamere Heath, years ago, during WW1, to transport the maintained and restored, and the Grand Rooks circle overhead before settling for Millbrook Warren, Sandy Warren. area’s distinctive sand. Union is now enjoyed for cruising, the night. In cold weather migrant birds Detailed route leaflets for this, the As you leave Leighton Buzzard, you angling and canal-side walking. like redwings and fieldfares may be seen county’s main long distance walk, are will set out along the towpath of the This first part of the walk also runs singly or in flocks, feeding on late berries available. Bright, clear winter days could Grand Union Canal, a legacy of the great alongside the River Ouzel. Leaving canal or windfalls. Small leaf buds will have be an ideal time to follow the Greensand 18th century era of canal building. As and river behind, you will follow paths to formed on the trees, and you may hear Ridge. manufacturing and industry began to coniferous Oak Wood, within Rushmere the wind sighing through the dry ‘keys’ The walk begins in Leighton transform Britain’s economy, a network of Country Park. Although less biodiverse (winged fruits) on ash or sycamore. Buzzard, known for a 15th century canals was built to transport cloth, coal than broadleaved woodland, in winter Glossy ivy leaves and their black berries market cross and a church which John and many other goods and raw materials. particularly conifers do provide habitats cloak the bare trees. And a winter sunset Betjeman believed to be the finest in At one time there were some 5,000 miles and food sources for siskins and tits. In is a memorable sight as the sky flares Bedfordshire. All Saints Church has a of canals in Britain. The 93-miles long winter you might see the rare crossbill. many different colours or as a red ball of chancel screen and Arts and Crafts Grand Union Canal was begun in 1793, Some parts of the conifer plantation have sun sinks through the silhouette of bare stained glass, and a striking Gothic spire. to link the Midlands to the Thames and been thinned to restore ancient heathland. trees.
continued on page 18
16 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 17 ASPECTS OF BEDFORDSHIRE LIFE
A Winter’s Walk
continued from page 17 cross Church Meadow and Maulden recorded here: many may be seen all Wood, two designated sites of Special year round. Scientific Interest. Onwards through As Sandy recedes you will walk Clophill, where you will see the ruined along the site of an old Roman road. church, and through ancient Chicksands Across the fields from Waterloo Farm and Pedley Woods. stands disused Tempsford Airfield, now Leaving Haynes, you could detour mostly returned to farmland, whence to Old Warden Park, the Shuttleworth during the Second World War, Special Collection of historic aeroplanes and Operations Executive squadrons flew vehicles. The Swiss Garden is a joy with many clandestine missions. As many shrubberies, urns, and follies, commemorated by a plaque in a farm ponds and bridges its grotto and tree building on the site, members of the fernery convey the mood of this SEO would fly by night into the heart of beautiful garden at all times of the year. Nazi-occupied Europe, supplying Along the Greensand Ridge Walk, as resistance movements. Over three years anywhere, winter may be an ideal time from 1942 to 1945, hundreds of flights for birdwatching. Many small birds like departed from Gibraltar Farm to make long-tailed tits flock together in winter, the perilous journey, and some 70 darting through hedgerows or woodland aircraft were lost. in a constant search for insects. And the Perhaps the most famous SEO agent bare trees allow clearer sightings. One to fly from Tempsford was Violette bird you might see or hear along this Szabo. Born in France, she moved to part of the walk is the rare Lesser London in infancy with her Anglo- Spotted Woodpecker. In recent years French parents. She left the Land Army sightings of this , the smallest of Britain’s to enter the SEO, flying only 2 missions three Woodpecker species, at only the before she was captured, and executed size of a House Sparrow, have declined in 1945 at the age of 24. As you cross here as nationwide, but in the Northill the fields, remember the men and and Old Warden area you may still hear women of the SEO, preparing for their the Woodpecker tapping on an old tree flights at Dusk, sometimes in difficult branch. You might also see a Barn Owl winter weather. drifting over the fields at dusk, a striking You will now be climbing again to sight. the small village of Everton. As John You will soon enter the village of Wesley (the founder of Methodism) Northill with village green and pond travelled nationwide during the 18th and sandstone constructed St Mary’s century, his friendship with John Church. Then on, crossing the River Berridge, then vicar of Everton, brought Ivel as you come into Sandy. Two him to the village, and crowds of ancient forts, built here to command hundreds would gather to hear him. the Ridge, were probably used by Leaving Everton, you will walk the Romans, and archaeological digs through Woodberry Park and then the have revealed Roman artefacts. Tetworth Estate as you cross the border Sandy is also known for the Lodge, into Cambridgeshire. The Greensand headquarters of the RSPB. Here Ridge Walk concludes in the Cinques again you could detour from the Common Nature Reserve in the Hamlet walk to wander the woodland and of Gamlingay Cinques, outside the heath reserve, recently restored, and larger village of Gamlingay. see some of the bird species Article first published issue 71, Winter 2015
18 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 19 READERS’ RECOLLECTIONS - from the archives COUNTY LIFE STYLE Light weight steel houses... THE FRIENDLY ENEMY your new home from HadHouse
As evacuees, though safe in our countryside fastnesses from direct threats and dangers of the war, we, of course, could not feel remote from them. Advertiser’s Announcement All life during wartime years was indelibly coloured with the facts. Whatever else we may have been doing, the background to it all was the superhuman struggle faced by our nation in a bid to survive in the face of overwhelming odds. But beneath the conflict of nations’ humanity, good-heartedness and gentleness was to be found.
by Michael Dundrow
ur gentlest and most exotic war years. Any tendency to mock the enemy reminder - if one were necessary - however, died before it could find expression. O that even in our peaceful corner We found a group of twenty or so friendly, there was a war on, occurred when a darkly handsome young men in strange group of Italian prisoners of war was sent maroon-coloured uniforms with green patches into the village. They were clearing and on their backs, working with skill and steady deepening the bed of the brook that ran precision, swinging axes, wielding picks and along the edge of the village. At first, sawing timber to cheerful cries and snatches The future of housing construction when word got round of what was going of song. There was nothing to mock there. on, my fellow evacuees and I went to see Aud and Doug, Eric and Mac and I, and the HadHouse specialise in the full design, manufacture HadHouse will be them. and build process of creating the perfect residential rest of our little band, stood back uncertainly, involved with each project at house. With an in-house design team to ensure that all levels, as required, from stiff - hoping for something to ridicule - and every individual design is correct, the HadHouse providing steel only packages watched the strange scene: the certified specialists begin the manufacturing process through to full turnkey incomprehensible cries; the mechanical and assembly of each frame in the HadHouse factory construction. The result of all ‘Hey, did you know there is some ‘Italian digger swinging its great bucket and biting and using the HadHouse state-of-the-art linear press. these options is a better POWs’ down by the brook clearing it out?’ into the stream bed; a couple of British guards quality, better insulated, ‘lties?’ I replied. leaning on their riffles and smoking. It was all structure, ultimately with no ‘Yeah. Prisoners.’ so relaxed, so unexpected, so fascinating. he computer-controlled linear press guarantees that snagging lists to deal with. ‘No! Go on! You’re kidding!’ I continued. Apart from the guards’ rifles, there was no every frame is millimetre perfect, which reflects in the The HadHouse structure offers superior insulation, which ‘Honest. My dad seen’em s’morin’ as hint of restriction; nothing aggressive in the T build quality. Each frame is then delivered to site and guarantees lower running costs throughout the lifetime of the ‘e went by.’ scene which somewhat resembled a installed by our qualified installers, ensuring that each structure house, which benefits the end user. The BOPAS accreditation means that each HadHouse home ‘Let’s go and see ‘em, shall we?’ I said. lumberjack camp with small trees and bushes is built exactly as it’s meant to be and exactly as the architect designed it. comes with a technical accreditation confirming a functional ‘Wha’ for? ‘Oo wants to look them?’ I felled and scattered about and the prisoners of The HadHouse cold-rolled steel frames are made from the lifetime well in excess of 60 years, assessed by Lloyds Register, commented. war spread out all along the brook, walking highest quality galvanised steel, which ensures that the and which can be mortgaged for in excess of two 30-year ‘Well, it’s summint to do.’ I commented. around without restraint or strict supervision. structure will never rot, burn, sag or settle. Not only is the mortgage terms. If anything, it looked as though it was the structure cheaper than traditional methods, it is also better HadHouse will leave you with a perfectly built house with As children, we took our cue from the Italians having the good time and the poor quality. The external façade can be manufactured to a client’s no snagging list... the future of housing construction. way the Italian army was portrayed on the guards who were restricted and bored to preferred individual look and design, including a brick finish, a wireless and in the newspapers during the render finish or composite material cladding. There are more death, standing idly about. For more details call HadHouse on than 200 standard details, including external finishes, freely 01279 771238 continued on page 22 available to view on the HadHouse website. or visit www.hadhouse.co.uk
20 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 21 READERS’ RECOLLECTIONS - from the archives
Capturing the essence of ...
Est.1998
® COUNTY LIFE MAGAZINE BedfordshireAUTUMN ISSUE 2019 LINSLADE - on the cover Scribes
Capturing the essence of ... Gardens Great & Small - St Paul’s Walden Bury. Down your way In The Footsteps of C ou Woburn retains its beautiful the Queen Mother. nty Li Georgian houses and areas of Est.2007 fe - B cobbled streets over which ® edfo Grand Days Out horse-drawn coaches once rattled. r ds
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20 The County Gardener • Wildlife • New Books • Lifestyle • Seasonal Features • Grand Days Out • 1 9 Great British Traditions • A Picture of England • The Short Story • Write us a letter countyCapturing the essence of ... life HERTFORDSHIRE SUMMER ISSUE 2019 Gardens Great & Small - Drop us a line St Paul’s Walden Bury. HITCHIN - on the cover Down your way C In The Footsteps of ou
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A THE WICKED LADY OF MARKYATE. £2.50
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20 The County Gardener • Wildlife • New Books • Lifestyle • Seasonal Features • Grand Days Out • 1 9 Great British Traditions • A Picture of England • The Short Story • Send us an email continued from page 20
Down your way Summer concerts return to Audley End Hitchin has an eclectic and vibrant House & Gardens - C ou atmosphere with attractive see page 52 nty Li streetscapes which ouze heritage fe - H e
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S £3.50 u beautiful coast line After watching for some time, we rings they had made from scraps of mm THE MYSTERY OF WHO KILLED MRS RIDGLEY? e
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, n a Hitchin shopkeeper in 1919 countryside u mb e r Down Your Way • Aspects of County Life • History & Heritage • County Connections • 2 5,
20 The County Gardener • Wildlife • New Books • Lifestyle • Seasonal Features • Grand Days Out • 1 gradually edged nearer. The guards said and aluminium, patiently filed and polished with 9 Great British Traditions • A Picture of England • The Short Story • did nothing; the Italians smiled at us and nail files and scraps of cloth and leather; Do you enjoy writing? Why not share the platform hurled loud comments to each other. Within a anything they could scrounge. These rings created by County Life magazines. minute - in the way that only children can amazed us. Never had we known such accomplish - the barriers were down and we beautiful objects made by hand. We had New contributors are always invited to were among them, laughing, shouting and always assumed such things were made in submit original articles for consideration. gesticulating madly as we tried to factories by complicated machines. It was communicate with them. It was an incredible If you enjoy writing about local history or have an quite a shock to see these prisoners handling enthusiastic interest in aspects of your town or village life, or melee, and although we didn’t get through to such desirable objects and telling us how perhaps you have a personal recollection you want to share, them much on that occasion, or they to us, they made them with their own hands in then we would like to hear from you. two essential points were instantly recognised such a makeshift way. Respect for our by all - friendliness and good humour - and prisoner friends rose to greater heights as we Tel: 01462 819496 email:[email protected] these made light of the language difficulties. recognised their expert workmanship. Those www.countylifemagazines.co.uk From then on, the brook was our regular rings were, of course, the prisoners’ currency, haunt for the next few weeks as the Italian’s and several members of our gang received worked their way laboriously downstream out rings in exchange for bars of chocolate or a of our territory and into the next village. We few cigarettes. We had quite a brisk little boys weren’t particularly interested in the business going for a time. The guards didn’t Italians as individuals; we soon became mind; they were pleasant, indulgent chaps, keener on the mechanics of what was going who just let us all get on with enjoying each on, in watching the progress of the work, the other’s company. digger and all the tools, in having a try at When the Italians finally worked their swinging an axe or lopping branches or piling way out of the village - and out of our lives - the bonfires and seeing and tasting what they it was only we children who’d had any were cooking for dinner in the big cans contact with them. No adult had come heating up over the brushwood fire. The anywhere near, so it was only in the guards weren’t forgotten either. They let us children’s minds that there grew the puzzling hold their rifles, showed us how to load them distinction between our likeable bunch of and laughed as we gazed in awe at real, live prisoners and the images portrayed on the ammunition. cinema screens. The girls, on the other hand, fraternised Our gentle, friendly, happy, yet sad, with the prisoners as young men, feeling an instinctive attraction for them. Aud and Betty Italians friends could never again be - for us - and Joan carried on long, earnest the enemy or objects of ridicule. There was conversations at a very slow pace, with much little steel in their make-up; more of music gesticulation and repetition and fits of than of world mastery of craftsmanship than giggling. They came to know most of the conquering ambition. Their primary concern Italians well, their names and something was to be with their families again; families about them, and looked for their favourites whose photographs they never tired of each time we all saw them. showing us with pride and affection. Some of the men showed us attractive Article first published in Bedfordshire County Life, issue 60, Spring 2013
22 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 23 READERS’ RECOLLECTIONS - from the archives
to see the perpendicular-style windows, which she told us spruced up in our best, the children from the village all were the most noteworthy feature of the church. I gathered in groups along the road then walked stiffly up remember being impressed, not by the windows but by the the hill leading past a terrace of three thatched cottages, atmosphere exuding inside that spacious old building and where two spinster schoolteachers ran a tiny shop. We by its ancient stones and furniture. I could sense the then passed the local village hall before finally arriving at centuries preserved inside the church and almost felt the Sunday school, which had been recently constructed to the ghostly presence of past generations of carpenters, side of the chapel. Once inside, we split into groups by age blacksmiths, millers, farmers and peasants, and heard them and gender. The older boys sat at the back with our jostling in the venerable pews. However, my classmates teacher Bob, who worked at the local chalk pit. We would and I were most interested in reading the inscriptions on see him cycling home to his council house, flat capped and the gravestones and endeavoured to discover the oldest; his old work clothes covered in chalk dust, but, on not to mention savouring the flesh-creeping thrill of Sundays, wearing his informal, ill-fitting brown suit and standing on a grave and imagining the deceased person brown boots, he looked completely different, although laying beneath our feet. uncomfortable. He was always friendly, sincere and Fred, from my farm, was the organist at the chapel. He tolerant towards us boys, and we held him in high esteem played for the morning and evening services every Sunday and never failed to give him a cheery wave and a friendly image for illustration purposes only image for and attended year in, year out. greeting when he passed us on his bike during the week. Fred didn’t have much time for pottering about after There were several prehistoric characters living in the breakfast. He would attend to his poultry then give the village at the time, some so gnarled, ancient, wrinkled and front yard a sweep before it was time to get changed and awe-inspiring that we children never dared speak to them. SUNDAYS LONG GONE head off to chapel. Sunday morning wasn’t all that different With their image of petrified humanity, they were rock like from other days for Fred’s mother either; if anything, it was in their permanence and inscrutability. Old Tommy was harder because she had to cook the Sunday meal - one of another antediluvian figure, who had worked on the farm RECOLLECTIONS OF A VILLAGE DREAM TIME. almost banquet proportions - which, of course, was since he was a boy, and was often seen pottering about his An evacuee’s life on a farm in the 1940s considered essential, with the vegetables having been patch of garden or leaning on his stick by his front gate, as by prepared on the Saturday. It was only fairly recently, she immobile and greeny brown as the moss upon the path. told me, that Sunday papers were allowed on the farm, One ancient fellow from the village used to preach to us Michael Dundrow and I also remember her telling me that when she was a sometimes and we would sit as if mesmerised by his aged, girl she only wore shoes on a Sunday and they had to be Humpty Dumpty figure, his large, bald head fringed with a undays, during the 1940s, were a world apart worshippers either, although wartime congregations cleaned the previous evening! Eventually, this routine did few wispy hairs and eyes magnified grotesquely behind from weekdays in just the same way that considerably exceeded peacetime ones. The men pottered gradually start to relax a little, but, during the 1940s, no powerful lenses. We treated him with the greatest respect, 1940 is a world away from life today. Sunday peacefully about, grooming their ferrets and cleaning their Methodist, or anyone else in the village, even mowed the however, as we knew instinctively that he had somehow S twelve-bore shotguns, before strolling down to the lawn on a Sunday, with the exception of attending to survived as a relic from Old Testament times with all the on the farm really began when the milking was finished, the cows had been turned out to graze allotments to criticise their neighbours’ gladioli and pressing and urgent jobs. powers which that implied, being able to do nasty things Being staunch Methodists, the farm was on the to us children if provoked. We had all been told the and the cowsheds had been finally cleaned out. No cauliflowers, then stopping to have a yarn over the garden gate before dropping in at the local pub for a leisurely half monthly rota of homes that received and entertained the salutary tail of Elisha calling the two bears down from the more farm work was then done until afternoon pint before returning home for lunch. minister for the day when he arrived on his rounds to mountain to maul the boys who jeered at him. We had no milking and nothing again after that. This was an My home farm, however, had its own peculiar preach to the faithful. There was no bus service between intention of risking such terrors even though we felt sure inviolable rule, and never once, even at the busiest variation of the Sunday pattern. For a start, the family the villages on Sundays - or on weekdays come to that! - there weren’t likely to be many bears roaming our local times when, the harvest in the fields - waiting in were strong Methodists, therefore teetotallers, so nobody and so the minister either cycled or depended on lifts and chalk hills. perfect weather - was ready to be brought in, do I dropped in at the Dukes Head on Sunday, or any other day therefore usually ended up staying all day. The minister’s As Methodists, we considered ourselves to be lucky remember it being broken. of the week for that matter. So, this special Sabbath visits had the effect of intensifying the Sabbath aura at the having almost an infinite variety of preachers, mostly lay, atmosphere had a strong religious observance about it, farm, giving it prominence and added justification, with occasional visits from the dog-collared ministry. There Sunday was Sunday, come wartime, food crisis or any serious though never solemn. concentrating the mind a little more, and we would savour was always something to divert us. The young and the old, other calamity. No good could come from working beyond With the parish church more than a mile away, the more keenly the slightly pious, more rarefied atmosphere man and woman, sophisticated and simple, the boring, the the strict minimum on the Sabbath. This wasn’t just the Methodist chapel was nearer - only a few minutes’ walk up on Sundays with the black-suited minister at close lucid, the articulate and the near incomprehensible, they practice at the farm where I had been evacuated to; it the hill - so it was a matter of convenience to attend the quarters. No bloom was cast on that host by these all appeared before us over the years in a vast, slow- applied to the vast majority of farms in the area. You could nearer, and this convenience had hardened into tradition visitations; indeed, they were usually jolly times, with moving kaleidoscope, which, during the 1940s, were all look down from our chalk hills on a Sunday and see because none of the locals at our end of the village ever much laughter and amusing anecdotes and jokes - licensed part of the experiences that provided us children with a by holy orders - especially after the excellent lunch, which absolutely no sign of human activity in the fields around; considered going to the parish church. Indeed, there was a pretty serviceable foundation for a decent life. not a cart moving, and certainly no tractor. Everything was scarcely concealed animosity between the Anglicans and the hostess had slaved over all morning in preparation. Michael Dundrow, his mother and 3-year-old sister were evacuated from London’s at rest. the nonconformists, a slowly reducing legacy from the My own attendance at both morning service and East End during the Blitz. Aged just 12, Michael settled in with a friendly family of With those early jobs done, an air of quietness akin to times of open and virulent conflict, conducted now in afternoon Sunday school was inevitable, given the home farmers and he quickly became absorbed in their way of life; one which he recalls with such vivid detail and fondness. mild sanctity descended on the farm, indeed on the whole thoughts and whispers. environment. No pressure was applied, and none was
village - the result of the local children having been sent During the years I lived in the village, I went to the needed. Being keen to do the right thing by my foster off to Sunday school! It is also fair to say that the village parish church only once, not to a service but with Miss family, I responded automatically to the tradition that
church and chapels weren’t crammed full of eager Jones and the rest of my classmates when she took us all pervaded, and so every Sunday morning before 10.30, all Article first published in Bedfordshire County Life, issue 68, Spring 2015
24 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 25 ASPECTS OF COUNTY LIFE
A WELCOMING SIGN All photos: copyright 2014 Alan Humphreys In many towns and villages across this land, including our county, you will be hard pressed not to find a public house with a familiar name such as, the Swan, the Bull, the White Horse, the Square and Compasses or the Mason’s Arms.
by Alan Humphreys
ub signs are an export of the Romans. hung up bushes as a way of marking the location of Within the Roman empire the our inns. Hence, the trading names ‘bush’ and ‘bull P identification and location of a public and bush’ were applied to many public houses in the house, where the sale and consumption of towns and villages of Roman Britain. wine was enjoyed, would have bunches of It was many centuries later before the first pub - as we know it today - appeared. Religious houses vine leaves hung outside the door to identify ran the earliest true pubs, or inns, to cater for the it as a place of trade - in essence a trading pilgrims and knights who were travelling to sign. crusades in the holy lands. Signs that appeared during this period included the Saracens Head, the When the Romans crossed the English Channel to Turks Head, the Lamb and Flag and many others visit our green and pleasant land, they discovered, besides. During the course of time, some of these due to our inclement weather, a lack of vines. As a names have been shortened - the Lamb and Flag, result - and as an alternative to the vine leaves - they for example, at some time became shortened to the Lamb.
continued on page 28
26 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk A WELCOMING SIGN LIFE style... enjoy, relax, indulge
homes - gardens - property
british traditions - nature notes
grand days out & great escapes
new books - short story All photos: copyright 2014 Alan Humphreys continued from page 26 a picture of england Following the dissolution of the monasteries, Huntsman have evolved, depicting modern life and some religious names were retained, including times. those such as the Mitre or the Ship, which makes It wasn’t unusual for a predominant trade or reference to the Ark, and the Anchor, making fraternity to be recognised by a pub sign. The reference to the Christian faith. Golden Fleece refers to the wool trade. The Coopers page 31 • Under The Hammer - Cars and classics at auction. However, landlords of the time thought it better Arms is a common pub sign. The Coopers, page 34 • The County Gardener - Colours, perfumes, harvest and preparation. to show allegiance to the crown and so adopted Saddlers, Bricklayers and Masons are all examples of page 35 • Cover to Cover - Can’t put a good book down. Recommended reading from the latest releases. names such as the Crown or the Kings Head, for commonplace trades identified at the time. page 37 • A Very British Tradition - Valentine.. will you be mine? example. Heraldry also became a theme for public Coaching inns would have names such as the Coach page 38 • Great Escapes - Got the lockdown blues? We escape to the Heritage Coast. houses and the Black Lion, the White Lion, the Red and Horses or the Horse and Groom. Fraternal page 40 • Grand Days Out - Many coastal locations enjoy a rich seam of charm, history... fancy an oyster? Lion and the Golden Lion also appeared. The Red societies, such as the Freemasons, were also page 42 • Nature Notes - Let’s get Natural - Goodbye immaculate garden. Hello ‘wilding’. Dragon represented the Welsh arms; the Unicorn, identified with pub signs such as the Square and page 48 • The Short Story - ‘The Reluctant Fire Warden’. the Scottish arms; the White Horse, the Hanoverian Compasses or the Corner Stone. page 50 • A Picture of England - Hands - Face - Space. arms; and the Rising Sun, the badge for Edward III. There are many more examples, but those listed The local gentry were not to be left out either here give an insight into that familiar swinging sign, because they also wanted to immortalise which - to many - is perhaps overlooked for its themselves, and so many public houses adopted a historical content and connection, which, inevitably, family name. Nor were English heroes forgotten: hints at a small slice of both the local and national Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and even history as well as worldly connections and their villains such as Dick Turpin became popular names heritage. for identifying public houses. One amusing connection refers to a historical The Cock, the Cock Pit and Ye Olde Fighting record of a monk who - it is said - had such strong Cocks would have marked the venue for cock faith that he believed he was capable of flying. He fighting, while the Bear denotes bear baiting; the apparently jumped from the roof of his abbey in an Dog and Duck, hunting; the Bull and Dog, bull attempt to fly. However, his lofty aspirations and 31 34 37 38 40 baiting; and the Bird in the Hand, falconry. The subsequent earthly connection delivered him with Cock and Bottle is probably the odd one out an abrupt meeting with his maker when he fell to because it was used to imply that both bottled and earth with a bump. Suffice to say, he didn’t fly but draught beers were sold on the premises displaying assured his faith in the Almighty for all time as he this particular sign. More recently, the Cricketers swings in the wind of many a pub sign displaying Arms, the Anglers Rest and the Hunt or the the name the Flying Monk.
28 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 29 UNDER THE HAMMER Moreteyne Manor WEDDING BREAKFASTS - PRIVATE PARTIES - MEETINGS - & FOR ALL YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS Cars And Classics
Selling your classic car can, perhaps, be a painful decision. Considered as an old family member, sadly neglected in the garage or a restoration dream hit by the reality of the cost ST VALENTINES DINNER 14th FEB 2021 Imagine your 2021 of upkeep, W&H Peacock offer an alternative route to market via auction.
Make Valentine’s Day wedding at by extra special at Moreteyne Manor... W&H Peacock Moreteyne Manor and show your loved one one of the most ith the benefit of online bidding, and a just how much they still mean picturesque settings dedicated marketing department offering to you and surprise them with W video and professional photography, a very unique, intimate and in England. W&H Peacock provide a quick and hassle free memorable Valentine experience. This 16th Century moated Tudor manor house is renowned method of sale for the vendor with buyers dealing not only for its romantic beamed restaurant but also as an direct with the auctioneer. established special occasion venue. Offering two private MOTHER’S DAY 14th MARCH 2021 Our vehicles come in from private individuals looking to suites accommodating 18 to 60 - the larger of the suites also let go or down size, solicitors dealing with deceased estates Show Mum just how has its own private bar, making it an ideal location for weddings and other special occasions. In our secluded and the occasional barn find from a house clearance. Over much you care! the past few months we have been fortunate to have some gardens we have a stunning marquee which is just perfect RECENT AUCTION HIGHLIGHTS Moreteyne Manor’s beautiful cars and classics through our salerooms with for weddings and our gardens hold ample opportunity for Images: unique setting outstanding results. and intimate dining experience your wedding photography with the beautiful backdrop of Top: 1951 MG YA 4 door saloon - hammer price £11,000 If you are looking to enter a classic car into auction, our will be a memorable the Manor. We guarantee to provide you with an experience Above: Fordson ‘ Model 8’, Thames 5cwt, light van - hammer recent highlights may be of interest. experience for all the right you will remember forever gauranteed by the personal price £13,500 reasons. Mum will love it, direction and supervision, every step of the way, by Mark Above right: Douglas WD21 Motorcycle for restoration - hammer just as much as you lover her! and Jacqui Hickman. proce £9,000 Left: Volvo P1800 S Coupe - hammer price £14,600 Woburn Road, Marston Moreteyne, Beds, MK43 0NG Tel: 01234 767003 www.moreteynemanor.co.uk E: [email protected] If you own anything which you think might be suitable for one of our sales please contact W&H Peacock on 01234 266366 Open Tue to Sat for lunch and dinner (Functions only on Sunday) email: [email protected] or visit www.peacockauction.co.uk
30 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 31 COUNTY LIFE STYLE Art Deco Inspired doors... Traditional appearance, modern perfomance Advertiser’s Announcement
Images: IDSystems aluminium Heritage Doors with fixed-frame sidelight windows - Photos credit: Chris Snook Photography For those undertaking a renovation of a more Contemporary locking and security... traditional style property, or seeking to add Locking mechanisms and security character to a contemporary extension or new build, protection have come a long way since the Art Deco inspired style of aluminium Heritage the original steel doors were first Doors has proved to be increasingly popular. installed. Like all IDSystems doors, the heritage doors feature multi-point raditional appearance, modern performance... locking mechanisms with ultra-secure Unlike traditional steel windows and doors where the 6-pin euro cylinder, whilst for additional T frame was typically formed from a single piece of metal, security the glass specification can be IDSystems heritage doors are manufactured from thermally upgraded to include laminated glass broken aluminium with a polyamide thermal break between the because, with a polyvinyl interlayer inside and outside of the frame. The inclusion of the thermal between sheets of glass, when smashed break prevents cold bridging between the exterior and interior the glass shatters but does not break, surfaces of the frame and preventing condensation from providing extra peace-of-mind for building up on the inside surface of the doors. homeowners.
For more information about IDSystems range of Adding character to builds... award-winning glazing products or to discuss your The neo-industrial style dates back to the 1880s before own plans visit www.idsystems.co.uk becoming hugely popular during the Art Deco era of the late or call 01603 408804. 1920s and early 1930s. Originally the horizontal frames were a necessity because glass manufacture was limited to small, single glazed panes. As glass manufacture developed larger panes became more achievable and the style went out of fashion, but the renovation of urban lofts and former industrial sites in recent decades has rekindled demand. Today the Art Deco style is incredibly popular amongst those seeking to renovate traditional properties and is also perfectly suited for those wanting to add character to a more contemporary new-build project.
32 County Life THE COUNTY GARDENER COVER TO COVER
THE BOOK REVIEW PAGES Colours, perfumes, Recommended Reading A regular appraisal of interesting books, some by local authors, with a county connection of just a jolly good read.
harvest and preparation. Local Local Editor’s Author Author featured book
by Peter Dean The Hertfordshire United Counties Buses Moth Letters From The Few Cameras at War Cook Book
Books about war and the United Counties Buses - A Celebrating everything the Against a lush backdrop of Fascinated by the Battle of pictures that came out of Fleet History begins by county has to offer, The lichen-covered trees, the Britain from an early age, conflict usually taking a brief look at the Hertfordshire Cook Book peppered moth lies as a young man Dilip concentrate on the picture expansion of the United takes you on a journey hidden. Until the world Sarkar realised that inter flowering welcomed as a mainstay of the cleaning the glass, will also let in more content. But behind every Counties Omnibus across the county’s food begins to change... recording and sharing the honeysuckle, winter box, traditional Christmas dinner. Winter light, which will benefit your plants picture there is a camera - Company since its and drink scene from A clever picture book text Few’s memories was of witch hazel and yellow stews will be made hearty with the come the spring. and that’s what this book formation in September distilleries to farm shops, about the extraordinary paramount importance. At W is about. Profusely 1921 through to discovering the way in which animals have the time, back in the mid- aconites bring scent and colour to addition of root vegetables, as they Clean your gardening tools too. illustrated throughout with its demise in October independent enterprises evolved, intertwined with 1980s, membership of the the dull winter days. Bedding plants become soft and palatable in the Give then a rub down with a brush pictures of the cameras, 2014. The company that make this area far the complication of human Battle of Britain Fighter like winter pansies brighten up bubbling stock. and a rag and don’t forget to check rather than the acquired over fifty more than the commuter intervention. This Association was well containers and can be planted with It’s time to check on any stored electric tools for defects, like your pictures they took, it looks independent operators belt it can be dismissed as. remarkable paperback populated and the then heather to give a robust display all fruit to make sure that it doesn’t rot. If lawnmower, strimmer and hedge at 100 years of conflict between 1922 and 1938. This book is filled with the edition of the amazing Honorary Secretary, the from the Crimean War to May 1952 saw the fleet region’s favourite story of the peppered now late Wing season. you have apples, from the autumn trimmer. They may need, or benefit, the Korean double in size with the independent restaurants, moth is the perfect Commander Pat Hancock harvest, which have been stored in from a service. War. It begins in the days acquisition of the Midland cafés, pubs, shops and introduction to natural DFC, OBE, supported boxes in your garage, or store At the tail end of the winter when a photographer area of the Eastern suppliers from cover to selection and evolution for Dilip’s research by Winter flowering honeysuckle, like cupboard, you may well find that some months, early daffodils and snowdrops needed to be more of a National Omnibus cover. It dives deep into children. Along come forwarding letters to scientist than an artist, Company, encompassing everything that St. Albans people with their individual pilots of the box, has white flowers that give off are diseased. These will need to be will emerge and the earth will soon such were the dificulties of Bedfordshire, north has to offer in particular, magnificent machines interest. a delicate heavenly perfume that discarded to save the neighbouring warm up, as spring approaches. If you shooting and processing Buckinghamshire and without neglecting the rest which stain the land with As the Few sadly fade surprises as it is carried on the breeze. fruits from rotting. Apples are great in follow my advice, you will be well any photograph.It ends north Hertfordshire. of this beautiful county. soot. In a beautiful away, it is only now that Honeysuckle is a climber and box is a crumbles and pies, and baked Bramley prepared for the next growing season, with the cameras whose The National Bus Travel from the unmissable landscape changed by the significance of Dilip's compact dimensions, Company split United selection of craft beers at humans how will one little correspondence, industry border shrub. apples, with hot custard, are a very with clean and tidy tools, pots and versatility and ease of use Counties into three the Beer Shop in Hitchin moth survive? Powerful and archive arising are Witch hazel flowers are yellow, as special treat. working areas, and you will be ready, meant that photographers operating companies in to the picturesque village and visually spectacular, becoming truly apparent. are those of aconites. But witch hazel is During this time of the year, any and able, to go full steam ahead. could largely forget the 1986: United Counties, of Welwyn, visit Laura Moth is the remarkable Dilip shares with us, for a small shrubby tree, whereas aconites window of opportunity should not be So, enjoy the winter plants for science and concentrate on Luton & District and MK Kate to indulge in bespoke evolution story that the first time, a small spread low across the soil, with yellow the art. Some cameras Citybus, halving the size of cakes that are almost too captures the struggle of selection of his missed. When there is a sunny day it their colours and perfumes, but look simply recorded events. the fleeet. The main focus pretty to eat, and then animal survival against the correspondence with cups of lovely flowers. Winter bees will affords an ideal time to visit the forward to the new year too. It could Others defined and of the book looks at the come back over to background of an evolving Battle of Britain fighter be grateful for the food source that greenhouse and tidy up. Check nets turn out to be a bumper cropping year, changed the way those vehicles operated by the discover Puddingstone human world in a unique pilots, providing us an these plants provide, especially as their for tears, and mend them if they are in especially if you are ready and up for events proceeded. company and the various Distillery, the home of and atmospheric inspirational insight into survival, during the winter months, need of repair. Don’t forget to tidy up the challenge. These were the cameras liveries, both fleet and Campfire Gin. introduction to Darwin’s the immeasurable value of that went to war, and this advertising liveries are also There is something for theory of Natural this research and depends on it. old compost bags and sweep the floor No one can forecast next year’s is their story. listed within the book. everyone in this book. Selection. personalities involved. In the vegetable plot, root crops too. If time allows you could wash weather. What we can do, however, is like parsnip and swede will dominate. pots and clean the greenhouse glass to be prepared. • Moth • Cameras at War • United Counties Buses • The Hertfordshire Cook Book • Letters From The Few • By Isabel Thomas Some brassicas, such as winter with disinfectant. This will get rid of Follow Peter in every edition of County Life and plan • By John Wade • By David Beddall • By Becky Alexander • By Dilip Sarkar MBE ahead for each new season! Illustrated by Daniel Egnéus cabbage and Brussels sprouts, will be green moss and pathogens and, by • Papeback £16.99 • Hardback £30 • Paperback £14.95 • Hardback £25 • Paperback £7.99 • isbn 978-1526760104 • isbn 978-1526755544 • isbn 978-1910863640 • isbn 978-1526775894 • isbn 978-1526610553
34 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 35 Never miss an issue... A VERY BRITISH TRADITION SUBSCRIBE Give the gift to County Life Magazine Bedfordshire of love this Hertfordshire Cambridgeshire I *year for Valentine’s Day hether you’re planning to pop the question with the perfect diamond only W ring or treat your loved one to a gorgeous gift, with a little help from the experts * Four issues a year published quarterly £23 at Baker Brothers it’s all wrapped up.
Lizzie McAuley at Baker Brothers comments, “Silver jewellery is always a popular gift option and jewellery by Rachel Galley is a prime example. Her designs are very feminine and the range is perfect for Valentines, with silver earrings starting from £25 and matching sets available too.” enjoy a consistently Valentine good mix of Lizzie revealed diamond specialists Baker articles focusing on Brothers are anticipating a rise in the number of proposals on 14 February. She continued, Will you be mine?? towns, villages and “There’s always a big surge in the request for the county’s engagement rings in the run up to Valentine’s Day history and and following the pandemic I think this trend will he story of St. Valentine has many as Valentine became known - was eventually arrested. heritage - increase. There will be lot of people who want versions but the one favoured by This trail of events may have culminated on 14 February - something to look forward to. Our scholars is probably that of the it will never be known - but, according to one legend, and and not forgetting customers are prioritising and T while Valentine was imprisoned, he sent the first Valentine priest, St. Valentine, who fell out of favour deciding now is the time to get message while locked up. Apparently, he fell in love with some outstanding with the Roman emperor, Claudius II. photography. engaged. Everyone’s hanging their the jailer’s daughter, who would visit those incarcerated in hats on 2021 being a more positive The modern St Valentine’s Day celebrations are said the emperor’s prison cells, and, before he was put to year.” to have been derived from both ancient Christian and death, Valentine allegedly wrote her a letter and signed it “We have a huge range of Roman tradition. The Catholic Encyclopedia mentions at ‘From your Valentine’; an expression still very much YOUR DETAILS, please complete in CAPITALS engagement rings and, because we least three early Christian saints by the name of Valentine. employed today. Title Mr / Mrs / Ms Forename specialise in diamonds, we have a lot of loose But this legend, which most scholars believe gave rise It is not exactly known why 14 February became diamonds available, which means to St Valentine, involves a priest who lived circa AD 270 in known as Valentine’s Day. The history of the event is Surname we can cater for all budgets and Rome. The Roman emperor Claudius believed that impossible to track down and, being hidden by the dust of all styles.” marriage made men weak, due to the emotional time, we will probably never reveal the truth behind Lizzie also added, “Ladies looking Address attachment with their families, and issued an edict which Valentine. But his legend is still strong, and the meaning to surprise their partner tend to opt forbade the marriage of soldiers to their sweethearts. behind it very relevant. Therefore, it does not matter for simple, stylish cufflinks from a range including Postcode This ban proved a great shock to the Romans. But which account you prefer to read or believe in because Montblanc.” Valentine, realising the injustice of the decree and the 14 February will always allow an individual expression of Please indicate which edition you are subscribing to: (£23 per edition) trauma caused to young lovers, gave hope of marriage to love to be given to a very special person, or an Bedfordshire Cambridgeshire Hertfordshire With collections tailored to all budgets, including many by countering the edict and secretly conducting anonymous expression of love presented to an admired STARTING THIS ISSUE STARTING NEXT ISSUE silver ranges starting at £25, you can find the perfect present at Baker Brothers and treat hundreds of marriage ceremonies. But, as time went on, individual in the vain hope of winning their attention and I enclose a cheque payable to SELECT PUBLISHING yourself to something special. and rumours abounded, it was simply a matter of time admiration. One thing for certain is that Valentine’s Day PLEASE EMAIL YOUR SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRY TO: before Claudius heard of this defiance and sent for has become a very British tradition - one of many that we [email protected] Images: Top: £195.00. Centre left: From £2,500.00. Valentine to answer for his actions. The ‘friend of lovers’ - look forward to each year. We will email full details and can accept payment by secure BACs transfer Centre right: £135.00. All available from Baker Brothers Diamonds. 11 - 13, St Peters Street, Bedford MK40 2PN
36 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 37 GREAT ESCAPES
Head south to nearby Aldeburgh were Sir Francis beautiful. You can enjoy wonderful moorland and Drake’s ships Greyhound and Pelican (later renamed forest walks with coastal views; the area is surrounded Golden Hind) were both built. by ancient salt marshes and wide river estuaries. Aldeburgh is home to the internationally Snape Maltings - Snape Maltings are a unique renowned Aldeburgh Festival of Arts which was collection of granaries situated close to Aldeburgh. The created in 1948 by local resident, and acclaimed famous annual Adleburgh Music Festival is held in The composer, Benjamin Britten. On Aldeburgh’s beach The Snape Maltings Concert Hall, a beautiful conversion of Scallop, a sculpture by the Suffolk-based artist Maggi one of the old maltings. Snape also hosts a number of Hambling, is dedicated to Benjamin Britten who used music and arts festivals throughout the year. to walk along the beach in the afternoons. The Minsmere RSPB Bird Reserve - Minsmere is sculpture stands four metres high, and is made up of rated as one of the top bird sanctuaries in Europe and two interlocking scallop shells. Look closely and the is the RSPB’s flagship nature reserve. Minsmere upright shell which bears the words: “I hear those voices supports an enormous range of bird species, it is that will not be drowned”, which are taken from Britten’s particularly famous for its: avocets, bitterns and marsh opera Peter Grimes. harriers, and you might catch sight of its otters as well. Other notable attractions include the ancient Moot The ‘drowned town’ Dunwich - Dunwich, once a Hall and excellent fish and chip shops, one of which is thriving port and the capital of East Anglia, is now a often cited as among the best in the UK! sleepy sea side village, located between Southwold and Aldeburgh. During the 16th century, Dunwich was destroyed by a series of storms and floods which swept Things to do and places to visit... most of the town from the cliffs and into the sea. These days visitors can enjoy the wild beauty of this Dunwich Heath (National Trust) - Dunwich wonderful stretch of coastline that brings devotees designated a site of special scientific interest and an back year after year. It is said the peal of the the beautiful ... important conservation area. Dunwich Heath is submerged church bells can sometimes be heard from teeming with wildlife, unspoiled, and exceptionally beneath the waves!
Suffolk Heritage Coast
Whether you want to ‘get away from it all’ on a weekend break, or just plan on visiting for the day, the Suffolk Heritage Coast - between Southwold and Aldeburgh - is worth consideration and will deliver a distinctly different experience.
he Suffolk heritage Coast is an area of Southwold is a wonderful traditional seaside resort Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a feeling nestled along the beautiful Suffolk coastline. Its T of peace and tranquillity. The rich and varied simplicity in character and traditional nature creates landscape, from the coastal towns and resorts to the the perfect haven from the demands of a modern rolling farmland, offers a wonderful variety of society. The colourful Southwold beach huts, the experiences. In fact, the pretty village of Westleton famous pier and the unspoilt traditional high street received publicity after it was revealed that the offer a nostalgic trip into the history of the British Duke and Duchess of Cambridge had spent the seaside. There can’t be many who haven’t discovered night, preceding their first wedding anniversary, the romantic charm of this popular quintessential there in April 2012. There are other attractive English seaside town. For those who return, whatever market towns and villages, historical sites, open spaces the season, it is a route to yesteryear, a chance to wind and water mills; all this and much more that are reminisce on childhood holiday’s spent at the seaside just waiting to be discovered! town that time forgot.
PHOTO STORY - ABOVE: The iconic interlocking scallop shells found on Aldburgh’s beach. OPOPOSITE: Market Cross Place overlooking Aldburgh’s beach. Photos: copyright 2013 - Alan Humphreys
38 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 39 GRAND DAYS OUT REVISITED
while relaxing at the harbour café and restaurant or and unassuming gentleman, who would often be simply browsing the local market. Other tourist seen on his bicycle or in the Tudor Tea Rooms in attractions include the harbour open day, the Harbour Street. But to the wider world, perhaps, he barge/boat race and, of course, the famous Oyster will always be associated with horror films and his Festival. This traditional event celebrates the historic cinematic characters of Baron Frankenstein and landing of the oysters with the colourful seafood- Professor Van Helsing which made him a cult figure themed Oyster Parade, the harbour food fair and the despite the fact that throughout his stage and screen firework finale. career, which included roles in ninety-one films, the The historical aspect of Whitstable is still very majority of his appearances were not associated with much present today and can be further explored at horror. Whitstable castle and gardens, which date back to the Along the coast at Tankerton grassy slopes dip 1790s. Over the centuries, the castle and its grounds down to meet the sea, extending an invitation to have been home to local merchants and dignitaries visitors and locals to ‘walk along the prom’ and take and have remained landmark attractions throughout in some bracing sea air. The grassy banks of the their long and interesting history. The castle is a attractive marine parade promenade, which slope ‘must see’ for anyone visiting the town. down to a shingle beach, are characterised by pretty Whitstable Museum and Gallery is where visitors wooden huts and are reminiscent of an England so discover local stories of the area, including the Crab familiar in old postcards. At low tide, a pleasant and Winkle railway, local industry, the newspaper walk known as ‘The Street’ takes you right out to cartoon characters Pip, Squeak and Wilfred, and the sea and affords an unsurpassed view of Whitstable's memorabilia of Peter Cushing, the actor, film and skyline. television star who, for thirty-five years, owned a With its sense of intimacy and rich character, house in the town. Whitstable has become a favourite spot in the hearts Peter Cushing was without doubt a courteous and minds of all who visit the town. WHITSTABLE Synonymous with oysters, Pip, Squeak and Wilfred, the Crab and Winkle Railway and Peter Cushing.
Whitstable is like no other town by the sea. Its traditional charm, strong arts culture and rich maritime history complement its modern appeal.
hitstable’s main claim to fame is its town or enjoy haphazard progress through quiet lanes oysters, which remain an intrinsic part and alleyways - which proved ideal escape routes for W of this sea town's character and are smugglers in the late 1700s - you will encounter celebrated at the Oyster Festival where oysters eccentric names such as Squeeze Gut Alley, so named and other delicacies from the sea can be enjoyed because you will find it pretty difficult to get through, at the local restaurants and pubs, or taken home but it will eventually lead you to the working harbour. from the fresh fish market at the harbour. Constructed in 1831, the harbour lies at the mouth of the river Swale and is Whitstable’s visible link to its interesting past, which included diving, fishing, shipbuilding and worldwide trade. There is also a Shoppers can delight in the town’s bohemian historical connection with the Canterbury and charm with independent craft and gift shops, galleries, Whitstable railway - the Crab and Winkle Line - the delicatessens and fashion shops trading side by side first regular passenger steam railway in the world. with butchers and bakers. When you need to recharge These days, Whitstable harbour remains a working with a drink and food you will be spoilt for choice harbour. On West Quay there is fishing and related with a wonderful selection of cafes, restaurants and activities, such as the selling of the catch, on South pubs. Whitstable is also one of very few locations, in Quay. This location also offers leisure and sporting the country, that has a pub on the beach. activities, including Greta Barge Tours. Whether you take the main route through the Visitors can also choose to watch the world go by
PHOTO STORY - LABOVE AND RIGHT: Beach huts line the promenade at Tankerton. Photos reproduced courtesy of Visit Canterbury
40 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 41 NATURE NOTES COUNTY LIFE STYLE
Naturally By Tim Sharrock Don’t glaze over “What a marvellously neat and immaculate garden you have”, would have the triple or double question. been a welcome compliment a generation ago, or even a decade ago, but the fashion now is for ‘wilding.’
ISTENERS TO GARDENING PROGRAMMES ON heavy and liable to losing a limb or even falling in heavy rain or RADIO, VIEWERS OF THOSE ON TELEVISION high snowfall. It is, however, the most marvellous plant for L AND READERS OF MAGAZINE ARTICLES ARE wildlife, with flowers in autumn and early winter, when there are ENCOURAGED TO “LEAVE SOME WILD AREAS IN few others for bees, hoverflies and Red Admirals (often the last of YOUR GARDEN FOR THE BENEFIT OF HEDGEHOGS, the year’s butterflies), followed by berries for the Robins, Advertiser’s Announcement BUTTERFLIES AND OTHER WILDLIFE.” HURRAH! Blackcaps and Redwings in winter, when the blackberries on Bramble have all been eaten. Covering the remains of a dead This enlightened attitude towards ‘weeds’ and unnecessary bush or tree stump, Ivy can form its own little ‘tree,’ filled with tidiness can bring immediate benefits for anyone who has an interest for anyone taking the time to see what comes to its interest in natural history. Owners of Horses will want to get rid flowers and berries. of poisonous Ragwort, but if the rest of us tolerate a plant or Dead trees and dead branches may be removed by ‘tidy’ two we will have bright yellow flowers at least as attractive as gardeners, but leave them and they will provide perches for those of cultivated Golden Rod and the strong likelihood that interesting birds that would never be seen within the foliage of a Cinnabar moth caterpillars will take up temporary residence, living tree. Count the gangs of Long-tailed Tits as they perch with their striking ‘football jerseys’ of yellow-and-black barring. momentarily on such bare branches, and watch warblers and Then, a year later, the spectacularly bright-red-and-black adult Chaffinches using them from which to launch their fly-catching moths appear, flying by day. Three bonuses from just one plant. attempts. With luck, there might even be a Spotted Flycatcher The obsession with grass lawns also seems to be declining. one day. Weedkillers to get rid of ‘weeds’ and scarifying to get rid of moss Fallen dead branches or even whole trees will provide food are in decline. My lawn has been closely inspected by two for a multitude of invertebrates, including exciting creatures such botanists expert not only in the identification of flowers, but also as Stag Beetles, and Goat Moth caterpillars, and a source of food the leaves and stems of plants not flowering. They found 60 for fungi. It may be necessary to ‘tidy away’ such fallen timber, species of flowering plant. Not all of them flower every year, but but, rather than disposing of it, why not tuck it away in a corner I have been able to delight in displays of the Wild Pansy, with - somewhere or even make a feature of it within a flower-bed? It With energy efficiency one of the most as its scientific name Viola tricolor suggests - its attractive three- will also provide a hiding place for a whole variety of creatures. coloured flowers. As well as being beautiful, how can one not No fallen tree or branch? Why not acquire a large log and install important things homeowners must consider delight in a plant that is also known as Heart’s-ease, Tickle-my- it in a suitable spot? Over the years, it will gradually decay and when it comes to replacing their windows, fancy, Jack-jump-up-and-kiss-me, Come-and-cuddle-me and crumble, but be a valuable addition to your wildlife-friendly Steve Rawding, Sales and Marketing Director Three-faces-in-a-hood? In another year, another Viola graced - garden. indeed, dominated - the same lawn, the Sweet Violet, with the Serious gardeners always have a compost heap, but at leading home improvement company deepest of deep blue flowers. Selfheal is always present, and in nowadays some people get rid of garden waste in bins collected SEH BAC, discusses whether you should the years when it flowers, the lawn is covered in purple patches. by the local council. What a waste of valuable waste! Composted choose triple or double glazing. Setting the mower high, I leave it to seed and then, in autumn, I vegetable matter would provide nutrients, improve the soil get the delight of watching stunning male Bullfinches and their texture and can be a moisture-retaining weed-depressing mulch dowdy females feasting for days on the seed-heads. The same around favoured plants. The compost heap itself would provide a or decades, double glazing has been the norm whenever But this does not mean that double glazing should be lawn is absolutely stuffed with the moss that some gardeners try harmless and beautiful Grass Snake with a favourite site for its choosing replacement windows. With around a quarter of confined to history just yet; far from it, in fact. There are (but usually fail) to eliminate. Why? Moss is slow-growing, is leathery eggs, incubated by the warmth of the decaying plant F household heat escaping via the windows, it’s no surprise double glazing window options that offer excellent U-values, always low-growing, so does not need regular cutting with a matter. that an additional pain of glass proved so popular. and it is cheaper than triple glazing. lawnmower, and is so soft that it’s a pleasure to walk on A pile of sticks, prunings from bushes and fallen leaves tucked With triple glazing going one better, and increased energy Essentially, it comes down to your needs and your budget. barefoot. This natural ‘grassland’ is also favoured with ants’ away in a corner will provide a perfect spot for a Hedgehog to raise efficiency a major consideration both today and in the future, If your home is in a very exposed location, triple-glazed nests. Where there are ants there will also be Green its young or hide away for its winter hibernation. deciding between the two is now a decision the homeowner windows may make sense, and they will ultimately save you Woodpeckers. Who could resist stopping in the midst of Do not, however, imagine that having a less-than-tidy garden must make. more money over time. breakfast or lunch to watch these exotic-looking bright green- is less work than the immaculate lawns-and-flowerbeds version. With a third pane of glass, it stands to reason that energy If not, do you want to spend more for a little less heat loss and-yellow beauties with their scarlet crowns? Have I convinced Maintaining a wildlife garden can involve more not less work. efficiency is increased and there is no question that triple- when a high performing double glazed window can do a you that a natural lawn is more fun than the manicured version? But, to more than compensate, it will provide an abundance of glazed windows can achieve the better U-values - as low as similar job? Ivy can be a menace when it takes over a tree, making it top interest and pleasure. 0.8W/m².K compared to around 1.4W/m².K on a standard double-glazed window. WINTER - WILDLIFE PUZZLE: Question: Which is the odd one out: Bee, Fly, Frog, Lizard or Toad? And increased energy efficiency will help you bring down For more information, call
the amount you spend on your energy bill and lower your 0800 666 444
Answers. Toad (the others are all British orchids) British all are others (the Toad carbon footprint. or visit www.sehbac.com.
42 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 43 PROPERTY FLAGBOARD Town & Country Homes
CAMBRIDGESHIRE DEVELOPMENT LAUNCH OFFERS LONDON COMMUTERS THE POST-LOCKDOWN IDYLL
THE LATEST LUXURY DEVELOPMENT FROM THE UK’S BEST SMALL HOUSEBUILDER HAS BEEN LAUNCHED TO THE MARKET. HAYFIELD AVENUE IS LOCATED IN THE CAMBRIDGESHIRE VILLAGE OF GREAT GRANSDEN AND WILL OFFER THE OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE IN A TRANQUIL, RURAL VILLAGE THAT IS COMMUTABLE TO CENTRAL LONDON. homes in the area and the range of home designs will ensure there is something for first time buyers, growing families and downsizers alike. We have priced the homes very competitively for a limited period while sales are being taken off-plan. Although our construction site at Great Gransden is not currently open for public access, the outstanding specification features can be viewed within the Sales Lounge and show home at our Silsoe scheme.” Hayfield’s popular Part-Exchange scheme is available at Hayfield Avenue, which gives purchasers ultimate peace of mind and takes the financial risk away from selling their current home. It also enables purchasers to enjoy living in their current home until their new Hayfield house is ready, at which point they have the luxury of a week-long window to Accessed off Sand Road, the scheme comprises 40 move. charming new residences, influenced by the Arts Great Gransden is a convenient location for commuting and Crafts era. Great Gransden benefits from a into Cambridge, Bedford, Stevenage and Peterborough and to advertise telephone 01462 81 94 96 [email protected] quintessential village community and has been a across East Anglia. The close by A428 provides excellent previous winner of the Campaign for the Protection access to the A11 and M11 Motorway, the A1 and the A1/M1 of Rural England’s Best Kept Village competition. It link road, as well as the A14 and A10. The village also benefits is highly sought-after due to its Outstanding from a bus service, which stops at numerous locations schooling, local amenities, peaceful yet convenient including Cambourne, St Neots and Cambridge. location, collection of historic buildings and the Gransden & District Agricultural Society Annual Show. The recently renovated 17th Century Great Gransden Windmill is the oldest remaining post mill in England and is a scheduled monument.
While the construction site is not currently accessible to the public, off-plan sales are being taken from a dedicated Sales Lounge that has been created at Hayfield’s development in Silsoe, Bedfordshire. A large to scale model of the new scheme enables interested parties to take a closer look at the site layout and various house designs. Prices for the first release of three and four-bedroom homes range from £385,000 to £595,000. Kelly Sharman, Sales and Marketing Director of Hayfield said: “Our Hayfield Avenue scheme is in the beautiful and sought-after village of Great Gransden, which has seen very little new development in recent times. It is well served by the two nearby towns of Cambourne and St MORE INFORMATION: Neots, the latter of which happens to be the largest town in The Hayfield Avenue Sales Lounge is located at Hayfield Place, High Street, Cambridgeshire and offers a 47-minute direct train service to Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4ES. To book an appointment, , please telephone London’s Kings Cross station. 0800 046 9031 between 10am - 5pm seven days a week, or email: “Hayfield Avenue will set a new standard for luxury [email protected] COUNTY LIFE COUNTY
44 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk PROPERTY FLAGBOARD Town & Country Homes
BEAUTIFUL NEW HOMES BESTOW BRIGHT NEW FUTURE FOR HOME BUYERS
Lockdown has thrown what we really need from our homes into sharp focus. Demands and expectations have grown significantly and for many this has been a catalyst to re-evaluate their homes and lifestyles.
setting, a magnificent grade II listed wall and gates embellished with original eagle statues provide an impressive entrance to this development. Home hunters here are then greeted with The Place’s centrepiece; an existing manor house dating back to 1854, which will be restored and converted into four unique apartments. Complementing this striking building, home-hunters will also discover a diverse range of distinct homes including four
to advertise telephone 01462 81 94 96 [email protected] more apartment types, from contemporary designs to barn style homes, along with two-bed- room coach houses, two and three-bedroom charming cottage With beautiful new show homes to explore and style homes, attractive double fronted four-bedroom several exquisite developments to choose from, properties and detached three-story homes. Storey Homes has something to offer buyers at To ease the buying process, Storey Homes offers Assisted every stage of the home ownership journey and Move and Help to Buy at both developments. with the stamp duty holiday benefits available until March 31st, it’s the ideal time to press the re-set button.
Located within a sought-after conservation area a stone’s throw away from Bedford’s thriving town centre, De Montfort Place is an elegant gated development featuring a choice of two impressive sites. Due to be completed in May 2021, Haymarket Rise offers an exclusive collection of nineteen two-bedroom luxury apartments whilst The Harpurs features impressive five-bedroom family homes, including a stunning show home which will be ready for viewings from December. All built to a high specification whilst enhancing the neighbouring architecture, the homes Storey Homes is welcoming viewings by appointment only and adhering to government guidelines to ensure the safety of both are situated on an attractive tree lined avenue. potential buyers and staff. Additionally, a short drive away in Kempston, Storey Homes brings The Place. Situated in a wonderful historic For further information visit www.storey-homes.co.uk COUNTY LIFE COUNTY
46 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk THE SHORT STORY ‘I expect you could,’ Cyril grunted, as a couple of Spitfires ‘Just like ants and a kettle of boiling water,’ Cyril said to passed noisily overhead, giving him the excuse to gesture that Annie’s brother Sid, who was slumped against a wall
The Reluctant Fire Warden he couldn’t hear. All he needed was a new pair of lungs, he gripping his broken leg. by thought, and he would be piloting one of those Spitfires. Then It would have been a beautiful pink dawn, but inch by Jill Sheldon Annie would want to go out with him! inch the sun rose, revealing the carnage of the night before. After a while working in his shed, twilight drove him back Eyes bloodshot and streaming, Cyril found a clean corner of hen Cyril got the letter, he sat in his armchair ‘I can’t speak to you. Please move away,’ said Albert. to the house. He entered through the back door, pulling the his handkerchief and dabbed at his eyes. All around him, in for a whole day. From time to time he broke ‘Yes you can, if you want to,’ she challenged him, head on curtain across, and went to the front window to close the the soft light, people coughed and gasped. His breath into quiet sobs, his tears causing wet patches one side. She then puckered her lips, ‘You can call me Stella.’ black-out blinds. He stood puzzled as he noticed something in clouded in the cold frostiness as he looked round at the W to blossom on his shirt. The paper was soon ‘You can’t smoke here. Please move away.’ the sky which looked like dark fog, but then in horror realised smashed houses of friends and neighbours. With aching damp in his hands, but he forced himself to look at it again She reached up and kissed Albert on the cheek. Then she that he was looking at smoke. Curling black trails of it writhed lungs and sweat dripping from his hair he felt, and then and again, as if the words might change. turned and left. Cyril watched her walk away down the up into the sky until dispersing away into the dark night. saw, the burned flesh of his hands. ‘Exemption from National Service - unfit: bronchial. platform and the soldier called after her anxiously, ‘Where are Suddenly, red and orange flashes could be seen. They were Later, along with everyone else, Cyril was questioned by Report for duty at Seaham railway station - Designation: you going?’ coming from Station Road. It could only be … the police. He told them about the girl in the red beret at Fire Warden’. ‘Nowhere,’ she replied, swinging her gas mask over her ‘Oh God!’ cried Cyril. ‘The railway station! It’s on fire!’ the station, expecting to be condemned or even sacked for He had wanted to fly a Spitfire. It was so unfair. shoulder and disappearing out of the station without looking Cyril raced out of the house, his breathing soon laboured not mentioning it. But there seemed to be a number of One Sunday, a few weeks later, Cyril trudged along to his back. and rasping in his chest. He reached the platform in record theories about the reason why the train had caught fire. His new job, the cold air making him cough. He wasn’t on shift, Albert wiped the lipstick from his face at Cyril’s suggestion. time and saw Bill, the station master, hammering the coupling vague memory, recalling that at some point she had leaned but he checked the fire buckets every day, regardless. Papered ‘Well what do you make of that?’ to try and release the engine and the burning wagons from the against the train and therefore may have been a saboteur, over the wall outside the station, a giant poster of Winston ‘I don’t know. Funny that.’ Cyril was worried but he was main part of the train, while his friend Ted, the driver, shouted was added to the list. Churchill looked down on him, glaring and pointing: Do Your self-doubting by nature anyway. from the footplate, ‘Hurry!’ ‘We’ll do our best, Sir,’ replied the policeman. Bit. Others showed sinking ships; and enormous, luscious lips ‘Do you think she fancied me?’ Albert chuckled. Cyril grabbed the station water hose in a futile attempt to ‘But how the hell are we ever going to find her?’ foretold the dangers of careless conversations. He stopped for a ‘Ha, you should be so lucky! Are you going to report it?’ douse the fire. Once freed, the engine slowly began to steam exclaimed Cyril. moment in front of the poster of the railway workers in the Albert grinned. ‘Not my type. Anyway, report what? Some away from the town, towing the blazing freight, but it was too A few days later, Annie brought a copy of the daily dark of the blackout, their eyes shining like candles: And Still girl being a bit forward?’ late and the first explosion ripped through the night, followed paper around to Cyril’s house. They sat together at the the Railways Carry On! He strode off along the platform, casting a wary eye over by relentless blasts and flames, rising high into the sky. kitchen table drinking tea. Through the window they A couple of soldiers marched purposefully from one end of the volatile cargo. All was chaos. Cyril could hardly make sense of it. People watched Sid hobbling about, his left leg now in plaster. He the platform to the other, guarding a munitions train. A few Cyril walked home gloomily. Had he failed to report appeared from nowhere, while the explosions ripped bricks had been so lucky. Three people had been killed in the people were arriving for the only passenger train of the day something or not? The woman shouldn’t have approached and roofs from houses along the street. He saw a man hurled explosion, including Ted, who had so bravely driven the and Cyril eyed them suspiciously as he had been taught to do - Albert, a soldier in uniform, but if Albert wasn’t going to report through the air and he himself was flattened against the station burning train away from the houses. anyone could be a spy or a saboteur - but no one looked it no one would listen to a mere fire warden. The woman’s wall by the massive blasts as earth, stones and twisted metal The story hadn’t made the front page because, on the furtive. He walked over to check that the sand bags weren’t words came back to him: ‘A horrible man coughing’. ‘Not even were flung high into the darkness. The noise was deafening same day, the Allies had dropped 63,000 tons of bombs leaking and for a chat with one of the soldiers, Albert Clarke, in uniform’. and disorientating and then suddenly he felt immensely calm over enemy territory. whom he knew from before the war. Albert had played He turned on the radio. The ‘Jitterbug Waltz’ was playing. in a space which shut out the shrieking and banging and panic ‘Look at this!’ said Annie, as they put their heads closer amateur football, but Cyril had never had enough breath to Cyril liked Dizzy Gillespie and he swayed to the music as he all around hime and held him in a place of quiet and purpose. together and peered at page five. ‘ “Heroes Save Town from charge around a pitch. They discussed football - and the lack picked up the letter and read the words again: Exemption from He ran from house to house, pulling people from burning Disaster”. Your name is mentioned Cyril! “Cyril Wallace, fire of it these days - and then paused as a passenger drifted National Service - unfit. He kept the letter out on the rubble: a urine-soaked old man from under a bed; two terrified warden, commended for bravery in rescuing the injured”.’ towards them. mantelpiece just in case anyone thought that he was a coward. children from a burning house. Someone yelled, ‘No, wait! It’s Annie looked at Cyril with pride. Cyril noticed Albert take a deep breath as she approached He felt like one anyway. But at least his mother was proud of too dangerous! Wait for the fire brigade!’ When they turned more pages, a very small paragraph and, when she pulled her hand from her pocket, producing a his appointment to the role of fire warden. A tear stung his eye. ‘Can’t. I’m the fire warden,’ gasped Cyril, doubled up reported that an explosive device had been discovered on a packet of Players, he let out his breath, but tightened his grip No matter how he bandaged the wound, the humiliation just coughing. train in Wales and that the police were looking for a young on his rifle. bled through. He saw Annie, in tears, trying to find her cat, which had woman believed to have been involved. ‘Hello,’ she smiled. Carefully shutting the back door, he walked down the path been flung out of the back door by the force of the blast. He ‘I bet that’s her,’ said Cyril. ‘Move away now please, madam,’ replied Albert. to his shed. Over the fence he could see his neighbour, Annie and Annie looked at each other in terror, but in that moment That Sunday, Cyril and Annie went to church. It was a ‘I will when I’ve got a light.’ Potts, hanging out the washing. She had told him once that he of fear he was also swamped by relief that she was alright. sad occasion remembering the three people who had died Cyril stared at her anxiously. It was the woman in the red looked like the film star Cary Grant. Perhaps he would ask her Without thinking, he pulled her close to him and said, ‘Thank trying to save the town. Cyril was amongst those mentioned beret who had sat near him earlier in church. He now noticed out sometime, but then, just as quickly, Cyril knew that he God.’ by the vicar for their bravery in rescuing people from the the brightness of her eyes and her smile. She had lipstick on wouldn’t. The war had separated the men from the boys She looked up into his eyes and smiled. tragedy, and the congregation then turned to congratulate her teeth. She didn’t look at him, but turned her green eyes on alright, and you could tell the real men by the uniform. ‘I have to go now,’ said Cyril, and he dashed back into the him as he sat very close to Annie and, although gently the soldier like a searchlight. ‘Hello,’ she called over the fence, battling a huge white smoke, clutching his aching chest. wheezing and with bandaged hands, he held his head up in ‘I just need a smoke to warm me. I’ve been in church sheet on to the washing line, bare-armed and grinning at him. Within hours, the town was full of people taking charge: acknowledgement. For once he was not ashamed of his lack sitting next to some horrible man coughing all over the place. I He waved, but didn’t stop. nurses and police, army and RAF, together with men from the of uniform. could hardly hear the sermon. He wasn’t even in uniform. You ‘How’s the new job going?’ she yelled to his back. nearby barracks, the Red Cross and the Fire Service. As order At exactly the same time, two hundred miles away at look lovely in your uniform. Aren’t you cold standing here?’ ‘Fine thanks.’ was gradually restored, the W.I. served cups of tea to the Southampton docks, a woman wearing a red beret was Cyril blushed and moved away a few paces. Was she being ‘Our Sid got his call-up papers today. He’s going in the injured and homeless. asking a young sailor for a light! deliberately insulting to him, or had she just not recognised Navy. Mum’s in pieces about it’. him from the church? He watched as she leaned carelessly ‘Sorry to hear that’. This story is purley ficticious. Any connection with similar events or any person or persons alive or dead is purley coincidental. Any imagery used is for illustration purposes only. against the wagon. ‘I could do with getting out of the house for a bit.’ If you have a short story (1400 words maximum) you would like to submit for the editor’s consideration, and to share with readers, please email it to [email protected]
48 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 49 THE LAST WORD A PICTURE OF England
Hands - Face - Space
ho hasn’t worn a face mask while This period, last year, we would have felt out walking, shopping or even very uneasy, and extremely conspicuous, to W driving? have worn a face mask in a public space, but The home-made face masks which many it has become second nature for the majority of us wore during the early days of the first of us, and this trend might very well lock-down were soon replaced with the continue, even when the vaccine against familiar light blue surgical face masks. Covid-19 becomes widely available during However, nowadays, highly individual - and the course of 2021. Bax... Dimensional freedom - Variety - Quality - Hand crafted very fashionable - options can be seen being It just goes to show that we all live in a worn by the street cred populace. They have constantly changing and evolving society surely become an everyday accessory. A where nothing surprises us anymore! SMITHS picture of England, no less! Ed KITCHEN 4 Station Road, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9QL Tel: 01223 236456 [email protected] www.kitchensmiths.co.uk facebook.com/kitchensmithsltd
50 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk