countyCapturing the essence of ... life HERTFORDSHIRE

AUTUMN ISSUE 2019

WELWYN - on the cover

Gardens Great and Small - St Paul’s Walden Bury. Down your way In the footsteps of Welwyn retains much old-world the Queen Mother. charm. It was once home to Anne Van Gogh, sister of Vincent Van Grand Days Out Gogh, the famous painter. Aspects of County Life We return to Stratford-Upon-Avon; THE WICKED LADY OF MARKYATE. home to Shakespeare £2.50 By day Lady Catherine Ferrers was the dutiful wife but by night she took on a and those quintessentially more sinister role. English tearooms.

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 • FIRST WORD Your Autumn Edition

This edition of County Life Magazine has an eclectic editorial mix of articles, which I’ve enjoyed compiling. As a result of numerous requests from readers, having missed editions spanning nearly 7 years since the first edition of County Life-Hertfordshire in 2013, I am publishing some articles from our archives.

Welwyn has been described as a village which maintains its old-world qualities and retains its charm. In spite of its proximity to its larger neighbour, Welwyn Garden City, it has kept its individual identity. Welwyn was once home to Anne Van Gogh, sister of Vincent Van Gogh, the famous painter. The village was also a resting place for the body of Lord Byron en route to St Mary Magdalene in Nottinghamshire, where he is burried.

Myths and legends abound in our county. The Wicked Lady of Markyate is once such legend. Lady Catherine Ferrers led a life of mystery, intrigue, deceit, robbery and murder. By day, she was the dutiful wife, but, by night, she took on a more sinister role.

During the 1940s, families were torn apart as a result of World War II. Many children were evacuated from our cities to more secure rural locations. Our article ‘Awash with Fruit’, from our archives, recalls one young evacuee’s account of life on a farm. Originally part of a series of articles by author Michael Dundrow, published in County Life, this story is a heart-warming account of the period.

The three counties of Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire have a diverse range of gardens - great and small. In this edition, we embark on a new series as we discover the best that our region has to offer. Our first location is the striking house, gardens and estate of St Paul’s Walden Bury, which remain local landmarks. The gardens come alive every year with swathes of colour amidst the lawns, trees and statues. The house is also known as being one of the childhood homes of Lady Elizabeth Bowes Lyon, later Queen Elizabeth and, later still, the Queen Mother.

‘Made in our Region’ is another new category to complement our eclectic editorial content. In this edition, we introduce Hadham Brewery.

Don’t forget our regulars, including: ‘A very British Tradition’; ‘Nature Notes’; ‘Under The Hammer’; ‘The County Gardener’; ‘Great Days Out’; and ‘The Short Story’.

Enjoy! an Al

www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 3 YOUR LETTERS

DEAR COUNTY LIFE ...

ABSORBING CONTENT.

Your article ‘Mrs Ridgley’s Murder’ proved a fascinating read and insight into life during the last century. I’m pleased to tell you that I also purchased the author’s book to read more about it. Hitchin also featured in your last edition, and I once worked, for a short period, at William Carlings. It was nice, therefore, to read your article on the town, which, I’m pleased to say, still retains much of its splendour, a fine range of shops and accessible parking. I enjoy reading County Life-Hertfordshire and, although you are also available to read online, I must say there is nothing like reading the real thing!

James Broadbent Hertfordshire

From the editor... James, I also worked at Carlings when they published the Gazette series of weekly newspapers, including their two freesheets: the Adlook and the Stevenage Mid-week. Publishing has changed a lot since my time at Carlings, but I’m pleased to learn your preference is still to read hard copy magazines!

Every wedding is as unique as the venue. writeback We take pride in high quality, friendly service and attention to detail Write to County Life at ... Pen-ultimate letter

DEAR COUNTY LIFE ... email:

[email protected] Simple things in life bring me pleasure. It might be just a few words on the page but your regular Pen to paper: articles, ‘A Very British Tradition’ and ‘A Picture of County Life Magazines England’, continue to entertain, educate and PO Box 32 amuse me. I look forward to each issue, and Biggleswade Bedfordshire wonder just what you’ll be writing about next. SG18 8TE

Have your say - make a comment or recommendation. Our ‘Pen-ultimate’ letter will receive one year’s subscription For more information, please call the hotel to our Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire or on 01727 864 444 or e-mail us at Cambridgeshire editions; redeemable as Mr Ian Canon a gift subscription to a friend if preferred! Stevenage [email protected]

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 AUTUMN 2019 ISSUE 26 REGULARS

20 • ASPECT OF COUNTY LIFE An evacuee’s life on the farm in 1940

29 • MADE IN THE COUNTY Oddy, First and Gold, a perfect trio 30 welwyn • SERENDIPITY 29 The home of good ideas on the cover 38 • BRITISH TRADITIONS y and all moral rights in such text, photography images. Front cover image copyright Peter Etteridge 2019 A little of what we love irrevocable, non-exclusive right and licence to use, reproduce modify, modify, non-exclusive right and licence to use, reproduce irrevocable, 42 • COUNTY GARDENER ose of the editor and should not be taken as such and the proprietors, publisher publisher ose of the editor and should not be taken as such proprietors, This season’s gardeners’ notes

44 • UNDER THE HAMMER Buying and selling at auction

52 • NATURE NOTES Unseasonal ‘snowy’ vista explained 54 10 • GREAT ESCAPES We return to Stratford-Upon-Avon 64 down your way • SHORT STORY 20 42 Time to relax and unwind 66 • THE LAST WORD Welwyn A picture of England

SPECIAL HISTORY ASPECTS OF SUBSCRIBE nology now known or hereafter developed, unless otherwise directed and to re-publish in future editions and assert in future and waive an and to re-publish developed, unless otherwise directed nology now known or hereafter

53 grant Select Publishing a perpetual, royalty-free © 2019 Select Publishing. Contributors automatically and hereby ntents remain FEATURES HERITAGE HERTFORDSHIRE Capturing the essence of ...

county life not necessarily th in this magazine are at the owners risk. The views and opinions expressed aterial submitted is sent entirely 32 • IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF HERTFORDSHIRE LIFE AUTUMN ISSUE 2019 THE QUEEN MOTHER 10 • HERTFORDSHIRE WELWYN - on the cover Five miles south of Hitchin, in the HAS A CLUSTER OF The double life of north Hertfordshire countryside, is JEWELS IN ITS CROWN: Lady Catherine Ferrers. St Paul's Walden Bury, situated Welwyn has been described as By day she was the dutiful wife,

Gardens Great & Small - but, by night, she took on a Down your way St Paul’s Walden Bury. just outside the village of a village which keeps its old- 16 In The Footsteps of Welwyn retains much old charm. the Queen Mother. It was once home to Anne Van Gogh, sister of Vincent Van Gogh Grand Days Out more sinister role. the famous painter. Whitwell. The striking house, world qualities and retains its Aspects of County Life We return to Stratford-Upon-Avon. THE WICKED LADY OF MARKYATE. Home to Shakespeare £2.50 By day Lady Catherine Ferrers was the dutiful wife but by night she took on a and those quintessential more sinister role. English tearooms.

gardens and estate remain local District Council courtesy of Stratford-Upon-Avon image: charm. In spite of its proximity 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 • landmarks, and the gardens come to its larger neighbour, Welwyn 16 • THE WICKED LADY OF MARKYATE 32 STRATFORD-UPON-AVON Subscribe to Hertfordshire’s alive every year with swathes of A daycation for culture, shoping and relaxing! Garden City, it also retains its The boredom of Lady Catherine Ferrers in her marriage traditional county magazine for photo: Courtesy Carloine Bowes Lyon Courtesy Carloine Bowes photo: colour amidst the lawns, trees and own identity, with reminders of to the much older Sir John Ferrers, back in the JUST £23 A YEAR statues. The house is also known 54 • HOME TO THE ‘BARD OF AVON’. its long history, and position on 17th century, would lead Catherine into a life of mystery, A quarterly miscellany of CONTRIBUTORS as one of the childhood homes of Stratford-Upon-Avon, although the home of the the old Great North Road. The intrigue, deceit, robbery and murder. By day she was the Hertfordshire life, home Ron Bird - Jon Boon - Peter Dean - interest, days out and lifestyle Michael Dundrow - Peter Etteridge - Lady Elizabeth Bowes Lyon, later world’s most famous writer, William Shakespeare, River Mimram runs through the dutiful wife, but, by night, she took on a more sinister in the county and beyond. Alan Humphreys - Ray Miller - to become Queen Elizabeth and, is also home to an eclectic array, of shops, centre, crossed by a brick role. The mystery remains, however, as to what really Isobel Murdoch - W&H Peacock - See page 36 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. All m in whole or part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Reproduction All rights reserved. Jess Perrin - Tim Sharrock later still, the Queen Mother. restaurants and quintessentially English tearooms! bridge. happened to the great fortune she aquired? 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

6 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 7 COUNTY LIFE MATTERS COUNTY LIFE MATTERS

Smallford Farm Shop and Glasshouse Café The Lavender Belles I’m all alone... Gatwards Wins MORE THAN JUST A FARM SHOP VINTAGE LOOKS, STUNNING HARMONIES AND BEAUTIFUL VOICES BUT HOW CAN ANYONE BE ALONE WITH SO MANY PEOPLE AROUND? MULTIPLE FAMILY BUSINESS AWARDS

the lavender BelleS are an innovative 4-piece female vocal group, singing HitcHin-Based jewellers, Gatwards has won Retail swing and pop classics from the 20s through to the 60s, and also modern music Family Business of the Year and Chairman, Anna Gatward, was with a vintage twist. awarded a Lifetime Achievement award for her 60 years of The Lavender Belles are made up of 4 close friends, Debbie, Jo, Kate and running the jewellers at the Family Business United awards Lynzey, who have been singing together for over 10 years as part of a local evening in June. The following month, Gatwards then won Silver performance group, SMP. In 2019 they performed as a 4-piece vintage music in the Luxury Brand category at the National Family Business. vocal group in a promenade production of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About With 259 years in business, Gatwards is the oldest family Nothing. The feedback for the singers was overwhelming, with requests for jewellers in the United Kingdom. bookings and CDs every show, and so The Lavender Belles was launched! The awards, organised by Family Business United and the But what exactly is modern music with a vintage twist? Well, in addition to singing National Family Business Awards, celebrate the contribution that all the favourite songs from the 20’s through to the 60’s, such as My Guy, Be My family businesses play in the UK economy. Baby, and many more, Anna was delighted and shocked at winning the awards and The Lavender Belles sing incrediBly, it Happens all of tHe time and loneliness can be very commented, “I am delighted to have won the lifetime achievement modern songs in vintage damaging to our wellbeing. award and for Gatwards to have won two retail awards. Gatwards styles. These are songs Our individual sensitivity towards human sociability, friendliness and empathy have a wonderful team and could not have achieved this without the Smallford farm Shop and glaSShouSe Café have which you hear on the radio differs, subject to how we experienced such emotional patterns when we were them. I joined the business as the 7th generation to ensure our been developed at the site of a second-generation family-run nursery every day, which have been children. Families socialise in lots of distinctive ways. heritage continuers and I am thrilled the 8th generation is now business in Smallford, just outside St Albans. Launched this year with reimagined to sound like Some people need people more than others, some less. Most of us yield to the taking the business forward.” a simple philosophy to provide the best fresh, premium quality they were originally written ancient motivation ‘to belong’. The belonging drive is very sophisticated in Charlotte, the 8th generation of the Gatward family, who has been produce, a range of produce including; tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers in a previous decade, such humans, but most of us have a fundamental wish to be liked, valued and loved. involved in running the business for a just over a year added: “We and aubergines are handpicked fresh and supplied daily to store. as Bye Bye Bye by N-Sync, When socialising with friends and colleagues, some people are regularly genuinely are over the moon to have won these awards and believe they are The Farm Shop also provides a unique range of products, local where in a Pulp Fiction style, or afraid of being perceived as ‘less than’ or being embarrassed in some way. If a recognition of our commitment to delivering an outstanding possible but always best in class, such as Bridget B’s Butchers and Feel it Still by Portugal The person is so self-conscious in how they communicate, it can cause errors in customer experience and to selling high quality products. In Seven Seeded Bread. Man, in a doo wop 50s communication. Often, they display multiple facades and they lock away their true challenging times for retail, we have stood the test of time The fully licensed Glasshouse Café has a finely selected menu, style. feelings, talk too much or awkwardly, or just say nothing. because Gatwards endeavour to give all of our customers a alongside the Chef’s daily specials and tasty children’s meals - offering The Lavender Belles use quality backing tracks created by cover groups such as For some, social settings are sometimes psychologically exhausting and are positive experience. Our aim is to “put the sparkle into buying a variety of freshly prepared breakfast and lunch dishes, as well as Post-Modern Jukebox, and then create original vocal arrangements and eventually avoided altogether and result in many of us feeling isolated or lonely. jewellery”, and we intend to continue do so for many more delicious homemade cakes. harmonies for each song. With their stylish vintage look, stunning harmonies and Advice from Shane Lutkin, Emotionalskills, is to be with other people and to try generations. The festive season will see beautiful voices, The Lavender Belles are a great feature at any event. In addition and communicate in a measured, genuine and sensitive ‘true to your self’ manner. mouth-watering menu to being ideal for festivals, fetes and live music events, The Lavender Belles are Shane also advocates people join in and try to empathise. Remember you don’t choices and products also available for private bookings, such as weddings, anniversaries and need to like everyone or to be liked by everyone or have huge numbers of friends. in-store. A range of hampers, corporate events. So, if you are looking for something for your special day, or for Having two or three close friends that will actually try to understand your thoughts gifts and seasonal produce a professional group to keep your guests entertained at a charity dinner, then and feelings, while putting their own stuff to one side, is extremely valuable and will ensure it’s the perfect look no further. All bookings are tailored to individual needs, with equipment and deeply comforting. place to come this Christmas. additional entertainment provided as needed. To get in touch, make a booking or Fundamental in Shane’s belief is awareness of yourself and awareness of others, Hatfield Road, St. Albans, check thier events visit www.thelavenderbelles.com especially those close to you. What truly makes them tick? What makes them Hertfordshire, AL4 0HE email: [email protected] appeal to you? With friends, overall acceptance of yourself and who you feel really www.smallfordfarmshop.com The Lavender Belles are also on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. realistically genuine with, is the key. Once you’ve found friends who you are relaxed with, who you sit really easily next to, value them. Presents Galore New Look Gift Hall Loneliness can be a state of mind, but it is possible to dissolve it from your life. Shane Lutkin is lead Therapist at psychotherapy organisation, Emotionalskills. EAST ANGLIA'S MOST SPECTACULAR CHRISTMAS FAIR AT BURY LANE FARM SHOP If you’re struggling with emotional issues, call 07986 488690 Set in the Stunning SurroundingS of Newmarket’s independent, family-run or email [email protected]. Visit www.emotionalskills.uk Rowley Mile Racecourse, the three day Christmas shopping Bury Lane Farm Shop have just extravaganza is the perfect start to the festive season. Offering up all completed a total refurbishment Baycroft are introducing two new care homes Baycroft fairfield (75 beds) near Letchworth, opens in of the atmosphere, sights and aromas of Christmas, the fair is a of their large Gift Hall, offering a IN THE AREA OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS. October 2019 and Baycroft Carpenders Park (78 beds) near treasure trove of special gifts just waiting to be found. Presents Galore wide selection of gifts including Watford, opens in March 2020. They will both offer residents their kicks off with the ultimate late-night shopping event on Friday evening, kitchenware, jewellery, scarves, own bespoke bedroom within homely yet luxurious surroundings, continuing throughout the weekend to allow you to purchase all of candles, greetings cards and hotel standard facilities, and 24-hour care for those with your Christmas presents in one place: children’s toys and books. New products and old favourites from Sophie Allport, residential, nursing or dementia care requirements. • Friday 22nd November; 5:30pm until 8:30pm Stubbs Mugs, Wrendale, Di Palomo, Powder Scarves, Barefoot & Beautiful to The developments include a beautiful landscaped garden and • Saturday 23rd November; 10am until 5pm name just a few, the new look Gift Hall is homely dining areas where fresh, locally sourced and seasonal • Sunday 24th November; 10am until 4pm just one more reason to visit Bury Lane. meals will be served. Residents will also be encouraged to enjoy With free parking on site and culinary delights to suit every taste, On the Cambridgeshire/Hertfordshire the cinema, library, hair salon, treatment room and physio gym. Presents Galore is the ultimate Christmas border with a bright cafe, fabulous food Plus, there is a dedicated children’s entertainment room for visiting shopping experience. Funds raised by hall, garden shop and children’s Fun Barn, children to enjoy, allowing visiting hours to be stress free. the event will go to Racing Welfare, which it’s a great day out for all the family. To request a brochure or to arrange a visit, please contact works to support all of racing's people For further information contact: Baycroft on 020 8821 5400 throughout their lives; and Palace House, Bury Lane visit www.baycroft.co.uk Newmaket. For more details and advance on 01763 260418, or email: [email protected] tickets visit: www.presentsgalore.org or visit www.burylanefarmshop.co.uk

8 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 9 DOWN YOUR WAY

Welwyn

A Jewel in Hertfordshire’s Crown

Welwyn was once home to Anne Van Gogh, who taught French to her students at Miss Applegarth’s School. Her brother Vincent Van Gogh, the famous painter, visited Anne having reputedly travelled all the way from Ramsgate on foot. Welwyn was also the resting place for the body of Lord Byron en route to Nottinghamshire.

by

Peter Etteridge

elwyn has been attempt to turn Welwyn into a spa described as a village town. St Mary’s has some Roman W which keeps its old- bricks in one of its walls and the world qualities and retains its remains of a Roman bathhouse can charm. In spite of its proximity to still be seen to this day. its larger neighbour, Welwyn Evidence of an Iron Age Garden City, it also retains its cemetery has been discovered at own identity, with reminders of Welwyn and some of the items its long history, and position on unearthed are now in the safe the old Great North Road. The keeping of the British Museum. A river Mimram runs through the Belgic track, which later became a centre, crossed by a brick bridge. Roman road from Verulamium (St Albans) to Camulodunum (Colchester), forded the river A number of famous people Mimram at Welwyn. In Roman have visited Welwyn, including: times, the river was navigable by Samuel Pepys (who spent a night small boats as far as Welwyn, there); Dr Johnson and Boswell which, as a result, developed and (who passed through); Vincent Van expanded around the ford as a Gogh (who visited his sister who market town and posting station for Image above: A pretty vista of point and leads past a number of interesting buildings having travelled all the way from Ramsgate on foot. once lived there); and the body of travellers. Church Street, Welwyn. and on to St Mary’s church, at the junction with the Church House, standing next to the churchyard, is a Photo: copyright 2019 Peter Etteridge Lord Byron (that rested there for Until bypassed in 1927, the High Street. The Old Chequers is a black and white brick and half-timbered building which dates from circa one night en route to its final resting Great North Road passed along the cottage with an interesting curiosity on the corner, which 1450. Originally built as a church house, it has served a place). Dr Edward Young, rector of High Street and Church Street, and shows two fascinating figures sitting around a chequers number of purposes over the centuries, including as an St Mary’s church during the 18th Welwyn had several coaching inns. board. Further along, Rose Cottage was once home to almshouse, a workhouse, a police station and a post century, was the author of Night For those who visit the town, Anne Van Gogh from 1875 to 1876. Her brother, office. There is a fire hook hanging beneath the Thoughts, and he made a good Church Street is a good starting Vincent Van Gogh, the famous painter, visited her, overhanging upper storey on the churchyard side of the

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10 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 11 DOWN YOUR WAY All photos: copyright 2019 Peter Etteridge

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house. This long wooden pole, with an also carried out after the outbreak of iron hook, was placed there as a fire in 1952. precautionary measure and would have Dr Edward Young, a famous been used to remove burning thatch in 18th-century poet, was rector of St the event of a roof fire. It is a reminder Mary’s for 35 years, from 1730 until his of the times when the fire station stood death in 1765. He moved from a house in the churchyard, next to Church in Mill Lane to a house called ‘Guessens’ House. in Codicote Road, just across the road St Mary’s church dominates the from St Mary’s. In 1742, during his time view from the High Street and it is at Guessens, Dr Young wrote Night recorded that a church, founded by Thoughts, in which he penned the Gunnora de Valoignes circa 1190 phrase ‘Procrastination is the thief of previously stood on the same site. The time’. The book was popular in both church’s medieval tower once stood on England and Europe and remained a the north side of the chancel but was bestseller for more than a century. The blown down during a storm in 1663. full title of this most famous poem was The church has a 13th-century chancel The Complaint or Night Thoughts on Life, arch, a double piscina, also dating from Death and Immortality, and it is thought the 13th century, a 15th-century rood to commemorate his wife, Elizabeth Lee screen and some magnificent Images Top: The Bridge over (daughter of the 2nd Earl of Lichfield), Mimram, Welwyn. stained-glass windows and patterns on who he married in 1731 and who died the chancel roof. The south-west tower Centre: Rose Cottage, in 1740. Welwyn. nave, clerestory, north aisle, south aisle In 1759, Dr Young built the Above: St Mary the Virgin wall and chancel chapel were rebuilt in Church, Welwyn. Assembly Rooms in Mill Street and 1911 by C. J. Blomfield. Repairs were promoted the local Chalybeate spring in

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12 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk DOWN YOUR WAY

stabling for 24 horses. The Swan’s name was changed in 1816 to the Wellington; probably as a mark of recognition of Wellington’s success at the Battle of Waterloo. The High Street leads to the bridge over the river Mimram where a plaque confirms that it maintained several mills and that, in 1795, the river was at risk of flooding to such an extent that the whole village was in danger. In 1960, a find of Roman tiles, on the banks of the Mimram, led to the further discovery of a Roman bathhouse. Crossing the bridge, and walking along the High Street facing London Road, the White Hart is another former coaching inn, which, in 1675, was converted from a private dwelling. At one time, the White Hart was one of the leading coaching inns along the Great North Road and, from the mid-18th century, was the most popular inn in the village, providing for changes of 80 horse teams a day. As well as being an inn, the White Hart had a large room which served as the village reading

All photos: copyright 2019 Peter Etteridge room, assembly room, meeting place for petty sessions and overnight resting continued from page 12 Image top/opposite: Figures on place for the body of Lord Byron, en The Old Chequers. his attempt to turn Welwyn into a spa route to Nottinghamshire. town. The spa was popular for ten Image above: The Wellington Inn. The population of Welwyn has years, after which the Assembly Rooms grown rapidly, and it is now an were converted into residential established town. In 1894, Welwyn, dwellings. In 1765, on Dr Young’s Digswell and the Ayots became a Rural death, aged 82, Dr Johnson concluded, District with its own council; at the “But, with all his defects, he was a man time, the smallest in the country. of genius, and a poet.” Welwyn boasts many aspects of a Ivy Cottage in Codicote Road, fascinating, proud and rich historical which dates from circa 1452, was heritage. It certainly retains much formerly Miss Applegarth’s School charm, and is worthy of the description where Anne Van Gogh taught French to ‘A jewel in Hertfordshire’s crown’. her students between 1875 and 1876. The nearby Wellington Inn proudly proclaims on its picturesque frontage, ‘Village Pub Dining’, together with the date AD 1352. Formerly known as the Swan, it is the longest surviving public house in Welwyn, with its earliest reference dating from 1352. In 1664, Samuel Pepys stayed the night. However, not regarding his stay as a Images above: Plaque on the Wellington favourable one, he wrote, “Very bad Inn, and plaque on Rose Cottage, accommodation at The Swan”. In 1756, Welwyn. the establishment had 12 beds and Image right: Old Church House, Welwyn.

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ASPECTS OF HERTFORDSHIRE LIFE

The Wicked Lady of Markyate

The boredom of Lady Catherine Ferrers in her marriage to the much older Sir John Ferrers, back in the seventeenth century, would lead Catherine into a life of mystery, intrigue, deceit, robbery and murder. By day she was the dutiful wife but by night she took on a more sinister role.

By Ron Bird

uring the sixteenth century, in common Ralph was most likely in his mid-sixties. Life for with all religious houses, the Benedictine Catherine was very dull and frustrating because, not D Priory at Markyate was closed down, and only did her husband not share her bed but he lived in subsequently the lands and buildings were sold. a different part of the manor. Hardly surprising, then, During previous years, that no children were born what had begun as no of this marriage. more than a tiny monk’s One day, Catherine cell had grown into a heard about a highwayman, nunnery of some size who robbed coaches on Stephen Hearn and, by 1539, the main Watling Street (almost on building was a house of her doorstep), and, as her some proportions. The imagination ran away with first lay person to own itself, she courted the idea to

Markyate was a relieve her boredom that Antique and Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers. Est. 1982 Humphrey Bourchier, perhaps she too could play who spent a great deal at being a highwayman. So it Our salesrooms continue to attract a wide range of customers from of money changing the was that, one night, heavily throughout the UK and across the world and we deal with almost everything that comes out of your home whether 17th century or 21st century. priory into a manor disguised as a man, house. By the middle of Catherine rode off into the Visit our website and view the sales catalogues with accompanying the seventeenth century, still of the night to seek out QTT][\ZI\QWV[aW]_QTTÅVL][I\www.tringmarketauctions.co.uk the manor was owned her first victim, who, oddly • Valuations for Sale, Probate & Insurance by Sir Ralph Ferrers, enough, turned out to be • Total and Part House Clearance Specialists • Fine Art and 20th Century Decorative Arts Sales who also had a London her sister-in-law, who was • Fortnightly Sales of Antique & Modern Furniture and collectables house in Lincoln Inn nearly the same age as Fields, and was Catherine's husband. We provide a full service to meet all your requirements unmarried. Catherine hated her, and was happy to relieve her of her jewels and cash. From John Worth was a then on, Catherine would, wealthy landowner, whose media repository the free Wikimedia Commons, From image: by day, carry on as the lady lands bordered the Markyate estates, and he was keen of the manor and then, by night, would frequently slip for his beautiful teenage daughter to marry Sir Ralph out to become a 'highwayman'. Ferrers, who was very much older. Catherine married However, one night, she was taken by surprise. A www.tringmarketauctions.co.uk The Market Premises, Brook Street, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5ED Sir Ralph when she was only 16 years old. By then, Sir lone horseman approached her and drew his pistol first, t: 01442 826446 e: [email protected]

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ASPECTS OF HERTFORDSHIRE LIFE

The Wicked Lady of Markyate

continued from page 16

forcing her to take off her mask. When he recovered the manor during 1840 and, because the locals were from the shock of finding out she was a woman, he scared of ghosts, no local tradespeople would assist in declared that he too was a highwayman. He told her the task of rebuilding, so builders from London were that his name was Jerry Jackman and suggested that brought in. Unaware of the legend of Lady Catherine or they form a partnership. This they did, and for a while the hauntings that were taking place, they were terrified all went well. In fact, legend has it that they became when, in broad daylight, her ghost was witnessed lovers, which could be true; after all, Catherine was a swinging from a tree and laughing at them. It is little young woman whose husband showed no interest in wonder that few remained to complete the rebuilding! her. One of her most spectacular appearances was The pair took part in a stagecoach robbery on the during a parish tea party held in the manor house night of 10 June 1683, but this time their male victim grounds early in the 1900s. Catherine's ghost was to be put up such a fight that Catherine shot and killed him, seen grinning horribly at the guests from her favourite the first time she had ever been forced to fire her pistol. perch in a tree. The next day, after hearing that a highwayman had The greatest mystery of all, though, is the question been shot and killed so near to his home, and being of what happened to the great fortune in money and unaware of his wife's double life, Ralph Ferrers offered a jewels that she must have amassed in her role as reward of £50 for anyone naming or catching the highwayman. The money may have been spent or given highwayman responsible. The amount was large and away, but what of the jewels? Well, it remains an extremely tempting and many people took to Watling unanswered question to this day. She could hardly have Street hoping to catch the highwayman and collect the decorated herself with them, and none were reported to reward. Knowing this, Lady Ferrers stopped her have been found in the manor. Many people believe that night-time activities for nearly a year, during which time they were buried in the grounds. Jerry Jackman was caught, tried and hanged. Before his There is an old rhyme that used to be sung by the execution and during interrogation he admitted that for children of Markyate, which ran: a while he had had a well-spoken lady as an accomplice, but he never revealed who she was. Near the Cell is a well One summer night back in 1684 Catherine could Near the well there is a tree contain her boredom no more and succumbed to the And ‘neath the tree, temptation to venture outonce again in the guise of a the treasure be. highwayman, but on this occasion her luck ran out. I wonder, will this ever be found? Coaches were now carrying armed guards and, in her attempt to hold up a coach, she was shot and badly Two films have been made about Lady Ferrers: the wounded but managed to escape the guards, only to first in 1945, entitled The Wicked Lady, which starred struggle back to Markyate Manor, where she died on the Margaret Lockwood in the role of Catherine. The second stairs. film shared the same title and starred Faye Dunaway in Her horrified husband had her buried in an the lead role. There was an inn in Wheathampstead, unmarked grave in Hitchin, believing that to be the last near St Albans, called ‘The Wicked Lady’. A novel was that anyone would hear of her. But a number of ghost also written by Magdalen King-Hall in 1944, entitled stories are told to this day of this remarkable woman. The Life and Death of the Wicked Lady Skelton. Many The story goes that, often, along the quiet lanes and more articles have been written over the years about this roads of Markyate, hoofbeats can be heard, and that lady, of which this one can now be added to the list. In Catherine, riding a coal-black horse, appears leaping the some articles, Catherine is referred to as ‘Kathleen’, and hedgerows or galloping through the grass alongside the one myth I can clear up is that in some articles drive to her home in an attempt to employ the turf to Catherine reportedly outlived Sir Ralph Ferrers. There is muffle the hoofbeats, just as she did when she was alive no doubt that Catherine died before her husband. Some and returning from a night of treachery on the highway. even say she may have been shot by a lover, but the She was often seen in the kitchen, and her ghostly strength of the legend supports the theory that image has been known to appear on the great stairway Catherine succumbed to the fatal shot discharged by the with such regularity that a previous owner would wish coach guard that fateful night back in 1684. Catherine 'goodnight' as he retired to bed. Catherine, or rather her ghost, is suspected of causing a serious fire in Article first published issue 5, Summer 2014

18 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk ASPECTS OF COUNTY LIFE ASPECTS OF COUNTY LIFE

but, gradually, as the hot sun bore down on the for old and valued customers. Beyond that, trees, we’d bite and swallow with diminishing saccharin had to be resorted to when all else grimace until at last that well-satisfied gleam in failed. The deep cupboards in the corner of the the eye at tasting told us that the crop was ripe! front kitchen, next to he fireplace, had held all There was no need for farmers to be on their the jam and bottled fruit and it draw gasps of guard against boys stealing plums. We were so admiration and envy from visitors as a bottle of few and there was so much fruit all over the plums was taken out to make a pie and the vast village. In practically every garden and in the treasure of fruit, row upon row, was revealed. many orchards the whole village was awash with After a day or two the skips arrived. Strongly fruit at that season. And, of course, as is the way woven round baskets, they stood in tall piles when there is such plenty, hardly anyone used to about the barns and yard. The barley, having been bother to seriously eat it. Apple and plum trees duly finished on the Friday night, on Saturday leaned so frequently over the roadside verges that morning the tall, splay-footed ladders and some you didn’t have to enter private property; just shorter ones were awakened from their long rest reaching up an arm as you walked by was quite in the implement she behind the barns and sufficient. thoroughly inspected. Any weak or damaged At the farm the matter of plums would be rungs were replaced and everything was got ready thought about for a few days and then discussed for the Monday start. over a meal, as they were all-important issues. We were a cheerful band that set to work that “What do you reckon about the plums down first Monday of picking ‘gages. Everyone was your place?” said the old farmer to Fred. looking forward to it; even those like the old

Image for illustrationImage for purposes only “Ready in about a week I should think.” said farmer, who had harvested plums during a long Fred pushing forward his dish for another helping lifetime, couldn’t conceal their pleasure at the of rice pudding. prospect of climbing into trees once more and Awash with fruit “The ‘gauges down at Tommy’s are ready now,” picking fruit. Even Arthur, dour old Arthur, said Bob. “I tried several last night.” licked his lips and popped an imaginary plum “I reckon the plums up here will be a few into his mouth by way of greeting, with a an evacuee’s life on a farm in the 1940s days yet,” said his father. He paused for a moment knowing wink. and thought. “We should finish of that bit of For plum picking is one of those tasks wholly Soon, after the end of August when most of the cereal harvest was in, the old farmer cast more than a cursory barley down at Double Gates by tomorrow night, delightful in prospect and with no apparent glance over the orchard below the farm buildings when the horses were let out to graze at the end of the day. Friday,” he said speculatively. “That leaves the unpleasant side effects or disadvantages. The He looked hard up into the plum trees. Fred, after letting his hens out in the morning, pulled down a bough in his peas and beans. They won’t be ready for about thought of unlimited ripe fruit which may be orchard below West View and sampled the fruit and Bob and Reg surveyed the plums and greengages in the another ten days from what I saw them this eaten at will and involving little effort in the morning. So I’ll ring the agent for the skips and culling is surely an attractive one. Add to it the orchard by Tommy Holland’s cottage as a cart was taken down the road to start the day’s harvesting. tell him we’ll start picking ‘gages on Monday. prospect of sunshine and a leafy paradise and the Going to be a fair number this year don’t you idea of plum picking seems to have been by think?” conceived in heaven. Michael Dundrow “A fair old crop,” agreed Bob. Freddie nodded. So, after we had eaten breakfast and cleaned The discussion ended, the wireless was switched out the cowsheds, we all went down the road to on for the news just in time. the orchard behind Tommy Holland’s cottage. verything pointed to it being plum and had a pleasant semi-sweet flavour, not “Hmm,” mumbled the farmer’s wife getting up Everything was ready: ladders, stacks of skips and picking time, and everyone could see, sticking and cloying like a dessert plum but a to clear away. “That means I’d better look out my picking baskets with hooks attached to hang on E especially where Fred’s trees overhung little sharp, with character about it. jam and bottling things. I’m going to be extra the ladder to give you two free hands. It might the road by the bus stop, that the fruit busy next week by the sound of it.” have crossed my mind that almost exactly a year

peeping between the rough leaves had Each year she bottled about a hundred before I had arrived in the village, stepped off the They were all searching for information and changed from tiny green bullets to large, pounds in weight of fruit, mostly plums and bus and seen my first plum tree. Now here I was none of them thought of asking us boys, yet we deep purple ovals with a sky dust bloom greengages, and she made countless jars of jam. twelve months of farming life later about to put were the ones who knew; the undeniable experts. upon them. Scores of folks in all the villages For months past, she had been saving a little of my ladder up against a tree and start picking as We had our fingers on the pulse of the plums in roundabout had just that day taken a plum each week’s sugar ration and hoarded it jealously an equal, almost, with all those others, unknown from a branch, squeezed it a little in the every nearby orchard in Lower End. For several away. It was surprising too how grocers could find a year ago who were pushing their ladders into fingers to loosen the stone and sampled the weeks past we had been sampling them, at first the odd bag of sugar over and above the ration trees around me. I might have thought along dull yellow flesh. If ripe, it was firm, not juicy, screwing up our faces in disgust at the sourness

continued from page 22

20 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 21 ASPECTS OF COUNTY LIFE

Awash with fruit

continued from page 21

those lines but I doubt it; I was too full of the generations, the soil and climate being just right. I pleasure of the moment. It was like going to a was appalled to hear that most of the plums went party. We were all calling light-heartedly to one not to greengrocers’ shops but to factories; they another before the games began, and the clear, had some industrial use as a dye apparently. It sunny air had something of the headlines of a was too awful to think about, all that delicious Champagne feel about it. fruit going to waste like that. The whole lot Someone came to show me how to put the should have been sent to Covent Garden and at ladders into a tree: slide it in sideways then turn once snapped up; the dealers would not be able it to rest securely on a thick bough. Soon, we had to get enough. Years afterwards, when I visited all abandoned the solid earth, gone aloft, the first Covent Garden market and was overawed by the greengages were dropping into baskets and mountains of fruit on the move each day, I could everyone was settling down to work steadily in an put our seemingly vast sea of plums into its atmosphere of satisfaction and good humour. proper perspective as indeed a very tiny drop in What sheer bliss! The flavor of a ripe greengage vast ocean. But, at the time, I had never seen so eaten on the instant it was taken from the tree! much fruit. All over the orchard as the day That divine flavour; juicy and sweet. The aroma progressed skips would be filled to the top with of the freshly picked fruit haunts me still and dark purple fruit, then taken up to the barn to be bears no comparison to the same fruit bought weighed so that by the evening the barn floor from the greengrocer’s shelf. would be entirely covered with plums and the air Height was my big thrill at first. I climbed would be delicately perfumed, until the lorry straight to the top of the ladder and gazed around came to collect them and leave another batch of at the new angle on life. In truth, I couldn’t see empty skips. very much. I was in the trough of a green wave, At first I found myself eating a plum every few whose crests reared around me and rolled away in minutes but, as with any fruit one can soon have a billowing leafy sea, wave upon wave to some a surfeit. And so I found. After a while I could distant bounds. But, looking down at the ground scarcely face another plum however ripe it may below me, I seemed to be enormously high, the have appeared. Also, I soon found that in quantity ladder swaying beneath my feet, and I imagined they had a disastrous effect on the bowel. “Black crashing down to lie broken in the grass. There coated workers, just like prunes,” grinned Fred, was the spice of adventure in it, a dash of as he warned me, too late, against them. riskiness, which with the licence to eat fruit at Those fruit picking days of early September, will, combined to produce in me a feeling almost long sunny and clear, were some of the finest of carnival. days of my life. I wished for them never to end They were large trees planted many years but that all our days could be spent in such a before, with stout branches so that for a change delightful and deeply satisfying occupation; the or when the ladder runs were pressing painfully, work grown easy, the pace leisurely amid the cool, I’d step off and stand upon a bough and pick leafy trees, with ripe fruit on every hand in from there and enjoy the freer movement of careless abundance and with good company and climbing among the boughs. After the greengages cheerful talk to pass the long hours and days it was the turn of the much more numerous blue suspended between earth and heaven as golden plums in the farm’s four main orchards. summer slowly merged into mellow autumn. The whole area for miles around was (This article was first published in Bedfordshire County Life - [autumn edition 2014, renowned for its plums. They had been grown for number 66]).

22 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 23 FROM THE ARCHIVES

THE CYCLING PIONEER

by Ray Miller

PHOTO STORY: The ‘fastest bicycle ever made’, photographed outside the Ivel Hotel, Biggleswade, circa 1888. Insert: An early ‘Ivel’ advertisement, of 1886, proclaims ‘A remarkable record machine!’ Images supplied and reproduced courtesy of Ray Miller

an Albone was an important figure in cycling “Mills has taken the wrong way, it transpires, so making the during the 1880s and 1890s. Many associate route longer as well as hillier. Thus it is twenty to twelve when he D him with producing the first practical farm reaches headquarters [Biggleswade]; and the crowd in the town is tractor but that came towards the end of his great. So, I start to lead him up the Potton road, which is more working career. Dan started out as a racing cyclist secluded. Down comes the rain, and soon we fetch a long bit and turned his skills to manufacturing cycles. uphill, at the top of which is the third milestone. Three miles in ten Bradley Wiggins was the first Englishman to win the minutes! Turning here, the pace is forced against the wind. Tour de France and became an Olympic champion Wondering how it is that I have such difficulty in hanging on to the racing cyclist at London 2012, but how would Dan man who has gone over 260 miles that day, I plug along as though for dear life. Two miles are passed, and my watch comes out. One compare today? minute to twelve is called, as, stooping down to see the time by my In 1882, at the age of 22, Dan was rated top in his lamp-light, I nearly steer into the bank. Go! Is the cry at thirty field, close to the famous H. L. Cortis, the first person to seconds, and Mills goes, with poor me dragging along behind, cycle 20 miles in an hour - on a penny-farthing! Today, steering with one hand and holding the watch in front of my lamp that is probably equivalent to being compared to Bradley with the other. Would twelve o’clock never come? The rain almost Wiggins, who can ride at 30 miles an hour! obscures the dial, but at last, just as I am ready to drop off the In the early days of cycle racing, the public highway machine, midnight comes, and the cry of ‘time!’ brings as much was fraught with difficulties. However, the Great North relief to myself as it must have done to the record breaker.” Road was in demand for record attempts because of its Dan competed with the best cyclists of his time at good surface. Dan was also in demand, by the prominent races, including the Biggleswade Fête. During a professionals, for pace-making record attempts, which was record-breaking race of 100 miles, in 1885, he came fifth, permitted at the time, and the following account, written despite a fall in which he hurt his leg. Those placed in by a commentator of the day, provides a snap shot of the time. front of him were, in effect, professionals.

Ray Miller is co-author, with Lee Irvine of the book ‘Dan Albone - Cyclist, Inventor and Manufacturer’. Published by the Veteran-Cycle Club. (This article was first published in Bedfordshire County Life - [autumn edition 2012, number 58]).

24 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 25 IN GOOD CARE Mixing dementia-friendly design

with domestic style. If you’re looking for a care home for older relatives, good design might not seem like the highest priority. Advertiser’s Announcement he fact is, well-thought-out design can have the dual effect of making the resident feel more at T home, while also helping them if they are dealing with some of the symptoms of dementia.

Colours... One of the symptoms of dementia is a decreased ability to tell the difference between colours. Baycroft homes provide all these areas and more - Stripes or strong patterns on walls or floors may be from spacious lounge areas to a cinema room, library and a confusing. hair and nail salon. So, at Baycroft homes we avoid wallpaper and carpets For those living with dementia, stimulation is vital. One with too much contrast, large patterns or shiny finishes. study* shows that improving the sensory environment Colour schemes are carefully selected and there is artwork helps 74% of people suffering from dementia improve in for the residents to choose from to decorate their motor performance and the ability to undertake everyday bedrooms. tasks. Additionally, 63% improved in cognitive tasks, the ability to remember, problem-solve and judge what to do in Light and visibility... A very important part of care home everyday activities. design comes from making the most of light - whether it’s natural sunlight or artificial lighting. Clarity and purpose... All the features in a Baycroft home The light level for those with dementia - as well as those have been carefully considered to create the ideal blend of who may be partially sighted - needs to be a little higher. style, practicality and comfort. Making sure that all rooms are well lit helps to create a Clear signage around the homes works to avoid more vibrant, positive atmosphere and can reduce the risk confusion for residents - particularly those with dementia of accidents from trips. who may suffer from disorientation, or forgetfulness over

what they were doing. To avoid over-using signposts, A stimulating environment... A care home should offer feature landmarks have been strategically placed around www.carpetsnearme.co.uk something for everyone. And it’s not only about activities, it the home for easy orientation. should be able to cater for people’s different moods and Designing a care home is a challenging endeavour. But personality types as well. one thing’s for certain - practicality doesn’t need to come So bedrooms need to be cosy enough for a resident to at the cost of attractive design. For your new flooring enjoy peace and quiet on their own. Communal areas tel: 0333 4440178 should provide space for different pursuits, while a To find out more about our openings in 2019, visit baycroft.co.uk. or 07957 431261 comfortable living/dining room should be an enticing space *Study source: for easy socialising. www.southampton.ac.uk/healthsciences/news/2014/10/23_dementia_care.page

3626 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 27 MADE IN OUR REGION

LIFE style... Q1: William, where does your interest in brewing come from? I have always been interested in science, creativity and beer, so moving into brewing was a natural enjoy, relax, indulge choice.

Q2: When was Hadham first established? I joined Hadham as Head Brewer in 2016 bringing with me over twenty years' experience in brewing to produce our quality craft ales. I have used my gift ideas - fashion - great escapes knowledge and passion to create and brew Hadham beers, and to ensure they are consistently good.

homes - gardens - interiors Q3: What is so important about the location of Hadham? The Icknield Way is one of the oldest highways in british traditions - culture Britain, following the direction of a single soil type to In Conversation with ... which it lends its name - the Icknield Series. Hadham Brewery is set on the Icknield Series, a special soil nature - wildlife - countryside WILLIAM COMPTON - type forming a band of land running south-west from Lincolnshire to Dorset. This soil, loam over chalk, HEAD BREWER at HADHAM BREWERY grows the very best malting barley in the world, and

page 29 • Made In Our Region - Oddy, First and Gold, the perfect trio from Hadham Brewery. was recognised over 150 years ago by brewers and page 30 • Serendipity - The home of novel gifts and other interesting home accessories. maltsters as producing malts of a character superior William Compton is head brewer at to any other. page 32/34 • Gardens Great & Small - The striking house, gardens and estate of St Paul’s Walden Bury. page 38 • A Very British Tradition - The iconic clock tower, at the palace of Westminster, is home to the beloved Big Ben. HADHAM BREWERY, an independent Q4: What beers do Hadham brew? page 40 • Expert Opinion - Autumn lawn care hints and tips. brewery company based in our region at Little page 42 • The County Gardener - Leaf fall apples and daisies. GOLD has a gentle hoppy citrus character and which is lightly bitter in body with a sweetness developing. page 44 • Under The Hammer - Auction news. Hadham, in Hertfordshire. page 51 • Cover To Cover - The Book Review Page. The aroma is pleasantly floral with lemon and lime page 52 • Nature Notes - Drifts In May - an unseasonal snowy vista explained by Tim Sharrock. At Hadham Brewery they use, and believe in, a term and notes of pine. It is brewed with pure spring page 54 • Great Days Out - Stratford-Upon-Avon. We revisit the home of the Bard of Avon - William Shakespear. usually associated with winemaking – ‘terroir’. water, Maris Otter barley, and Challenger, Fuggles, Goldings and Bobek hops. page 64 • The Short Story - ‘Priceless’ - a story of contentment. Terroir is the manner in which an area’s climate, soils, page 66 • A Picture of England - The humble front door. ODDY has a wonderfully intense, but rounded citrus terrain and traditions combine to produce a unique aroma, filling out with splashes of fruitiness and a beautifully smooth bitterness. It is brewed with Maris product. Hadham use a combination of Icknield grown Otter barley and Pilgrim hops, then generously dry Maris Otter barley, carefully malted by hand at hopped during fermentation with UK Cascade hops. Warminster Maltings - Britain’s oldest working maltings - FIRST has a fruity, bitter-sweet body, with touches of caramel and a full finish. The aroma is slightly spicy, and pure spring water drawn from thier own borehole. with marmalade and caramel notes and is brewed With the fantastic soil and climate in our region, the with pure spring water, Maris Otter barley, and Target and First Gold hops. provenance of this spring water and raw materials, together with William’s brewing style and experience, Q5: Where do the Hadham pump clips draw their inspiration from? Hadham Brewery have true brewing terroir at their 32 38 42 54 66 This special part of the Icknield Way at Hadham is in the brewery based in the Hadhams. Quality water, malt and rural county of Hartfordshire (Hertfordshire) where the hops, expertly combined into wonderful ales and with Hart roamed free for centuries. A Hart is defined as a exceptional customer service – Hadham Brewery are male deer which is over four summers in age, and The following pages offer a select choice of lifestyle experiences - Hartfordshire was where the more mature stags were to building a tradition of their own in our region. near and far - and others worth travelling that extra mile... be found when the King wanted a more challenging day’s hunting. It is also why our HADHAM pump clips County Life asks the questions ... depict a Hart drinking from a pool of clear water.

28 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 29 SERENDIPITY Serendipity noun. the occurrence of an unexpected surprise by chance Autumn time... and change is in the air

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30 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 31 GARDENS GREAT & SMALL

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE QUEEN MOTHER

Five miles south of Hitchin, in the north Hertfordshire countryside, is St Paul’s Walden Bury, situated just outside the village of Whitwell. The striking house, gardens and estate are local landmarks, and the gardens come alive every year with swathes of colour amidst the lawns, trees and statues. The house is also known for being one of the childhood homes of Lady Elizabeth Bowes Lyon, later Queen Elizabeth, and later still, the Queen Mother.

by Isobel Murdoch

PHOTO: The statue of Hercules, on a plinth, with a view along the beech-lined avenue looking towards the Organ House. Photo: Courtesy of Caroline Bowes Lyon

he Bowes Lyon family acquired St Paul’s It was through Edward Gilbert that St Paul’s Walden ground at the southern end of the gardens, enclosed on succession of members of the Bowes Lyon family inherited Walden Bury nearly 300 years ago. St Paul’s Bury entered the Bowes Lyon family. Gilbert’s daughter, two sides by parkland. During the 19th century, the house the estate. By 1900, it was home to Claude Bowes Lyon T cathedral in London held the patronage of the Mary, married George Bowes, who came from County was extended. (1855–1944), the future 14th Earl of Strathmore and parish and appointed the vicar; hence the name of Durham, where the Bowes Museum still commemorates Over the centuries since the Bowes Lyon family first Kinghorne, and his wife, Cecilia Bentinck, related to the the family’s local links. They subsequently inherited St came here, the local area has undergone significant Dukes of Portland. Accounts of the birth of Lady Elizabeth the village. The Bury is the manor house of St Paul’s Paul’s Walden Bury at around the time the house was change. During the early 18th century, Hitchin was a Bowes Lyon (the ninth of the couple’s ten children) differ. Walden and, by the early 18th-century, land in the completed. Their daughter, Mary Eleanor, married John settled, prosperous town; the second largest in Some believe she was born in London or even in a horse- parish was owned by Edward Gilbert (1680–1762). Lyon, Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne; hence the name Hertfordshire. But, while the town continued to thrive, the drawn ambulance. But she was actually born at St Paul’s ‘Bowes Lyon’. late 18th and the 19th century saw Hitchin’s fortunes shift Walden Bury, on 4 August 1900. It was in Hitchin that With its red brick and stone dressings, the house that Nearby was All Saints church with its 14th-century as industry (iron foundries and machinery) was her birth was subsequently officially registered and, when Gilbert built, and completed around 1720, is now Grade II* nave and 15th-century embattled tower and stair turret. It established, leading to severe overcrowding and disease. It the 1901 census was taken, her place of birth was listed in recognition of its architectural heritage. Brick was a was in this church in September 1900 that Lady Elizabeth took time for Hitchin to adjust, like so many other towns recorded as Hitchin. This was the year that Hitchin’s new popular material at the time; many older, timber-framed Angela Marguerite Bowes Lyon was to be baptised, almost at that time. town hall was built. properties built in Hitchin during the 16th and 17th- two centuries later. While north Hertfordshire faced social and economic St Paul’s Walden Bury is most famous now for its 50 centuries also acquired brick facings during these years. The St Paul’s Walden Bury house stands on high change, St Paul’s Walden Bury evolved little by little as a acres of landscaped gardens, which are Grade I listed. The

continued on page 34

32 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 33 GARDENS GREAT & SMALL

In The Footsteps of The Queen Mother Susan

continued from page 33 formal gardens were designed and laid out around the time family’s ponies or horses across the estate. During her youth, Peter’s the house was built during the early 18th century, although the hedges which delineate the formal gardens were in there are also more recent alterations and additions. A hornbeam. These were replaced with beech, in the same significant programme of restoration took place during the place, when the gardens were restored during the 1930s. 1930s across the grounds, led by the 20th-century But the grounds’ main features remain unchanged. Perhaps landscape architect, Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe, who designed parts during the dark days of World War I the gardens here of the gardens at Sandringham and Chequers and also provided a refuge as the family mourned the loss of one of designed a small courtyard garden at the back of the house Elizabeth’s older brothers, Fergus, killed in action in 1915, in 1990. and awaited the return of another brother from a prisoner of New features to the St Paul’s Walden Bury gardens, war camp. And when Elizabeth grew into a young woman developed over the last 50 years, include the woodland and met the Duke of York in 1920, he became a regular Presents a garden, reflecting a tradition of interweaving nature with caller at St Paul’s Walden Bury. It was here that she accepted more formal styles. Snowdrops herald the coming spring, his proposal of marriage in January 1923. Maybe they followed later by daffodils. Wild flowers also grow here in wandered through the wintry gardens that day, planning stunning collection profusion during the spring. There are bluebells and spotted their future; unaware just what that future would involve. orchids and also cowslips; a wild flower once commonplace As the King’s second son, it seemed unlikely that he would of autumn in the countryside but which has seen a severe decline in inherit the throne. But Edward VIII’s abdication 13 years recent years. Late spring sees the gardens as particularly later would propel George VI and Queen Elizabeth into the striking as the azaleas and rhododendrons blaze with colour spotlight. separates, and the magnolias come into bloom. Lilies and irises follow. Throughout her long life, as Queen and then Queen The gardens’ plantings evolve as the cycle of the year Mother, Elizabeth’s Hertfordshire roots remained strong. handbags unfolds. And, in 1983, the Bancroft Players’ new theatre on The main formal gardens were created during the early Walworth Road in Hitchin was named the ‘Queen Mother 18th century; a time of great change in garden design. Theatre’ to commemorate her local links. It is the only and renowned Formality was the trend early on in the century, only to be theatre in England to bear the Queen Mother’s name. replaced by so-called ‘picturesque’ or ‘landscape’ gardening. The house and gardens at St Paul’s Walden Bury are set foot wear This saw sweeping parkland or lawns scattered with features within a country estate, with ancient woodland alongside such as bridges and temples, but with little planting. St more recently planted trees, as well as an orchard, walled collection! Paul’s Walden Bury draws more on French traditions. One gardens and expanses of farmland. This rural setting must of the great French landscape architects of the previous have contributed to Lady Elizabeth Bowes Lyon’s lifelong century was Andre Le Notre, who designed the gardens at affinity with the countryside. Versailles. Le Notre also came to England and designed Environmental concern is now central to the St Paul’s Kensington Gardens. The design here at St Paul’s Walden Walden Bury estate. East Hall Farm, an arable farm, which Bury is thought to mirror his style and his interest in also rears cattle, is a member of the Linking Environment perspective. and Farming initiative (LEAF). And the estate runs a diverse The classic pattern around which the St Paul’s Walden programme of educational events throughout the year. Bury gardens were designed is known as patte d’oie, or Schools visit East Hall Farm to see farming at first hand and goose-foot. This involves a central point from which run to learn about the estate’s work. St Paul’s Walden Bury is long avenues, creating a distinctive structure. At St Paul’s also certified by the Council for Learning Outside the Walden Bury, each avenue is formed by clipped beech Classroom and runs outdoor art and science classes as well hedges. The style is formal but also vibrant because each as forest school activities. These are all opportunities for avenue leads to a different feature. young people in Hertfordshire to experience rural life and to The gardens have other distinctive features to explore. reconnect with nature in imaginative and creative ways. There are ponds and a lake, classical temples, pavilions, and stone and lead statues. You might even see the secluded St Paul’s Walden Bury House and gardens are open to the public all year terraced theatre. All have been designed to intrigue and to round, by appointment. The gardens are open without appointment on certain days. The house and temples in the garden are licensed for civil draw the viewer onwards. ceremonies and the grounds may be hired for events. Plays and other It is easy to picture the young Elizabeth Bowes Lyon, as special events take place from time to time. To check opening times for we have seen her in countless photographs, dressed in the the gardens, or to make appointments to view the house, go to Edwardian style, playing or exploring the St Paul’s Walden www.stpaulswaldenbury.co.uk – and then follow in the footsteps of Bury gardens with a dog by her side, or riding one of the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. SUSAN PETER’S 34 HIGH STREET, BUCKDEN CAMBS PE19 5XA TEL: 01480 812441

34 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 35 IN GOOD HEALTH Never miss an issue...

SUBSCRIBE Knee pain, symptoms, to County Life Magazine advice and treatment.

* BEDFORDSHIRE CONSULTANT, I year for MR SANJIV MANJURE, FROM BMI THE MANOR HOSPITAL IN BIDDENHAM, GIVES HIS SPECIALIST ADVICE ON only MANAGEMENT AND £23 TREATMENT OF KNEE PAIN. Advertiser’s Announcement * Four issues a year published quarterly What causes knee pain? The causes of knee pain are varied and can be due to an injury within the structures of the knee such as the ligaments or menisci (commonly referred to as cartilage) or it could be caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, gout and rheumatoid arthritis. This is by no means an exhaustive list but they are the most commonly seen causes. Children, teenagers and young adults are also susceptible to knee pain and at this age it is important to undertake a thorough investigation to diagnose and treat the cause of the pain as it could be due to an infection.

What symptoms should I look for and when should I seek specialist advice? Besides pain, other common symptoms due to a knee condition are locking of enjoy a consistently the knee (inability to completely straighten the knee), giving way and swelling. good mix of Any persistence of these symptoms should prompt an individual to seek specialist advice. articles focusing on When is surgery appropriate and what treatments are available? towns, villages and The management and treatment of knee pain will depend on the cause. For the the county’s majority of patients with knee pain it can be managed conservatively without any operative intervention. Patients may benefit from seeing a Physiotherapist history and who could provide them with advice, treatment and exercises to assist in heritage - reducing their pain and helping recovery. Conditions such as knee joint infection, severe arthritis, torn menisci or cruciate and not forgetting ligament injury may warrant surgical intervention and the consultant will advise some outstanding on the most appropriate procedure for the patient. In my practice I often perform operations such as knee arthroscopy (keyhole photography. surgery), ligament reconstructions and a partial or total knee replacement. Keyhole surgery is less invasive and reduces the amount of scarring. Partial knee YOUR DETAILS... replacement (or uni-compartmental knee replacement) preserves the anterior please complete in CAPITALS and posterior ligaments, removing just the part of the knee that has arthritis, whereas a total knee replacement removes and replaces the entire knee joint. Title Mr / Mrs / Ms Forename How long is recovery from knee surgery? Surname Surgical procedures such as knee arthroscopy and ligament reconstructions can usually be performed quite quickly and the patient can return home the same day with a course of physiotherapy. Recovery from a knee arthroscopy could be a matter of weeks, however a full recovery from a cruciate ligament reconstruction (back to sport) can take as long as 6-9 months with an Postcode appropriate rehabilitation programme. Partial and total knee replacement surgery is considered a major surgery and START THIS ISSUE START NEXT ISSUE can take 3-6 months of recovery time with a longer course of physiotherapy. In most cases patients are in hospital for a couple of days but the time spent in Bedfordshire Cambridgeshire Hertfordshire hospital is getting less as surgical techniques and technology improves. I enclose a cheque payable to SELECT PUBLISHING Most people are able to resume normal activity within a few months however we advise patients to avoid extreme or impact sports like skiing, squash or PLEASE POST TO: COUNTY LIFE MAGAZINES PO BOX 32, BIGGLESWADE, BEDFORDSHIRE SG18 8TE long-distance running.

36 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk A VERY BRITISH TRADITION The Clock Tower & the Striking of Big Ben

here can be few in September that year a people unfamiliar crack appeared. The bell, T with the name ‘Big repositioned by being Ben’; the nickname given turned slightly so that the to the great bell of the hammer struck in a clock tower that presides different place, has since at the north end of the chimed, albeit with a Palace of Westminster. different tone, and Who hasn’t raised a glass remains unrepaired to this in celebration of New Year, day. marked by the midnight In 2012, the clock chimes of Big Ben? It’s a tower was officially great British tradition, and renamed ‘Elizabeth Tower’ one which is renowned to commemorate Her and recognised the world Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee. over. On 21 August 2017, Big Big Ben was cast on Ben's chimes were silenced 10 April 1858 and was to allow essential transported to the tower restoration work to be on a trolley pulled by 16 carried out on the tower. horses. It took a total of Big Ben is planned to 18 hours to raise the bell resume its usual striking 200 feet into its position and tolling in 2021. in the tower. It first chimed in July 1859, but Ed.

38 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 39 EXPERT OPINION Beautiful Traditional & Lawn jobs to do, Contemporary Kitchens before winter sets in.

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR CAN MAKE. A LOT OF LAWNS, THIS TIME, LAST YEAR WHERE Advertiser’s Announcement DORMAN WITH SOME, WORSE STILL, DEAD. Get ahead... September to October ... get a roof on your conservatory Subject to weather conditions, September to October, are always good months to scarify the lawn as the conservatory can be an excellent way of ground temperatures are still warm enough for the adding extra space to your home. lawns to recover before frosts set in. Nevertheless, due to their polycarbonate or A So, what is scarification and why would a lawn benefit glass roofs, they can often be either too hot in from this? Scarification is a process that uses a simple summer, or too cold during the winter months. spring buck rake as opposed to a more advance However, replacing your old conservatory roof with machine. The process is to try and remove as much a new tiled conservatory roof could be the answer. dead moss, and lateral growth as possible. Thatch and

moss suffocate grass and their roots and also prevent Replacing your old conservatory roof with a new tiled water and nutrients passing through the root zone. But conservatory roof allows maximise the use of your conservatory as note, scarification is best carried out when the lawn is well as providing you with additional benefits. dry. Improve thermal efficiency – Do you want to save money

on your heating bills? The building control approved conservatory

Warm Roof PRO, installed by Elite Warm roofs, will ensure a October to December ... comfortable temperature in your conservatory all year round, Again, subject to weather conditions, aeration is best which means savings on your heating bills. Noise control – A tiled conservatory warm roof is an carried out between the months of October and excellent way of keeping the loud noises from the outside, out of December. the conservatory, which will allow you to relax in the peaceful Aeration is a process that can be as simple as just comfort of your own home. pushing a folk into the soil, or using a machine to make Improved aesthetics of your home – Elite Warm Roofs holes, slits, or core removal. There are benefits to all will ensure the best possible match of the tiles we use on your types of aeration. The idea is to make air pockets within conservatory roof with those on your existing roof. which will the soil profile to enable the roots to grow into. It can improve the visible appearance of your home. also help when compaction or thatch are issues. I would Adds on value to the property – Replacing your recommend some kind of aeration annually. conservatory roof with a tiled roof is an easy way of creating additional all year round living space, which increases the value of Things to keep an eye out for ... your property. Lawn disease, such as red thread, manifest as small round patches of lawn that turn red in colour and then Elite Warm Roofs have years of expertise in all aspects of become straw like after the disease has become conservatory roof manufacture and have designed one of only 12 dormant. Fungal diseases love warm, wet and dark ‘Building Control’ approved warm roofs available in the UK. The environments. If you are going to water your lawn, try company believe it is all about making these special rooms useable and do this during the morning. 365 days a year and pride themselves on the quality of the work, and service they provide. Their conservatory roof solutions add If you would like more personal advice on your lawn care, value to homes and lifestyle. Servicing a 60 miles radius from their especially for the months ahead I’m a phone call away - St Neots based factory and show site, all their installers are time 01462 512512, or you can email [email protected] or visit my website www.lawn-rite.co.uk served carpenters, roofers and craftsmen and they don’t subcontract. Elite Warm Roofs have a Georgian conservatory at their St Neots office where visitors can see the stylish looks, experience the noise reduction qualities and feel the warmth retained during the Winter months or the coolness during the Summer months. The company offer the widest available ESTABLISHED 1978 • EXCELLENCE FOR OVER FORTY YEARS choice of tiles and slates, along with an excellent choice of roof windows which ensure a minimal loss of natural light. Tel: 01707 262966 www.johnladbury.co.uk For more information contact Elite Warm Roofs on: 01480 218998 or visit www.EliteWarmRoofs.co.uk Showroom: Unit 11 Alpha Business Park, Travellers Close, Welham Green AL9 7NT

40 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 41 THE COUNTY GARDENER

From Only per £15 Leaf Fall Treatment

Apples and Daisies by Peter Dean

utumn brings many colours in grow until the leaves are blackened by that none are bruised or rotten. Putting the garden: copper, red, night-time cold. Then it is time to dig damaged tubers in the bag will cause A yellow, as well as green. It is up the plant, cut off the above-ground even more rot to spread, so be careful. the season when frost arrives and foliage, and store the knobbly tubers in Tree fruit - apples, pears, plums, deciduous-tree leaves show off their a frost-proof box under dry compost damsons and gages - are ready to pick true glory. Green pigment in the until the following year. The and either store, juice or eat. There are leaves, reacting to colder Michaelmas daisies and coneflowers, so many varieties of British fruit to grow temperatures, fades, leaving like rudbeckias, now come into their that it seems a shame that only a few underlying pigment colours - the own. These flowers open up their petals make it to our supermarket shelves. yellows, oranges and reds showing to show, purple, blue, white, red and But, if you visit a fruit farm, or a local through. This splendid colour yellow shades; a last show of market, you may well be able to try and formation is followed by leaf fall, as magnificence before the inevitable taste these varieties. Apple days at pigments and nutrients are arrival of winter. They are a haven for gardens and farm estates are popular reabsorbed by the trees. The any insects still foraging for pollen and nowadays, and these events do show off resulting carpet of leaves should not nectar, which is another reason to grow an array of fruit and, best of all, provide be wasted but collected and put in them. the opportunity to taste! pens or bin bags and left to rot, If you continued dead-heading Autumn is a magical time of year, producing leaf mould; a great soil roses during the summer months, they with changing colours, fog, mist and conditioner and mulch. will provide more flowers throughout cooler temperatures, which create September and into October. Then, mixed emotions. We have enjoyed the when the fading flowers are left, they summer warmth and are now starting Underneath the trees, little purple will produce hips: decorative red to wind down as autumn hands over cyclamen flowers appear. They are very bundles of encased seeds. These hips the batten of responsibility to winter. dainty, like ballerinas dancing in the make a good food source for finches So, why not get out into your garden understorey. They spread a little each and other birds, and are really pretty on and discover what is out there: spiders’ year, gradually filling the ‘stage space’ a frost-filled morning. webs soaked with dew, pretty flowers they are allowed to occupy. Autumn vegetables include and leaves, and hardy vegetables. Autumn colour also comes from the cabbages, carrots, parsnips and swedes. Make the most of autumn now last hurrah from flowers in the border; A touch of frost on these plants will before the winter sleep ensues. You dahlias, coneflowers and roses in bring out their flavour when cooked. won’t be disappointed! particular bask in the weakening Main crop potatoes can now be dug Follow Peter in every edition of County Life and plan sunshine. Dahlias should be allowed to and stored in paper sacks, making sure ahead for each new season!

42 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 43 UNDER THE HAMMER One of England’s Moreteyne Manor most picturesque Auctions settings WEDDING BREAKFASTS - PRIVATE PARTIES - MEETINGS - & FOR ALL YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS are changing. oreteyne manor is one of the most Traditionally auctions have been associated with antique furniture and collectables. unique restaurants and special occasion venues in Bedfordshire and possibly the M by most picturesque settings in England. W&H Peacock This 16th Century moated Tudor manor house oozes history and charm and makes for an unforgettable dining experience or to help celebrate a special event, occasion of wedding day.

Enjoy Christmas at Moreteyne Manor

December 2019 Menu The Manor can be hired for exclusive use and our Price Per Person *£35.00 - inc of VAT beautiful grounds are ideal for larger weddings of up *10% service will be levied to 100 seated covers. Our marquee, which has stunning views over the gardens, comprises a solid Cream of Butternut Squash & Lime Soup carpeted floor with a central dance floor, draped with Warm Crab & Leek Tart a cream champagne lining and a wrought iron Thyme Roasted Mushrooms with Stilton Crust Smooth Chicken LivePate with Apple & Walnut Chutney ith the massive rise in buying retail products changed their mind. chandelier. Moreteyne Hors D’oeuvres online has come an increased volume of The volumes sold The marquee is available between the months of W such items being consigned to auctions and are considerable April to October, making it perfect for a summer Roast Norfolk Turkey with Cranberry & Chilli Stuffing over recent years W&H Peacock has become the and can average wedding. We have a romantic beamed restaurant and Loin of Pork with Cream Sherry & Juniper Sauce Filet Mignon with Prune & Red Onion Compote place locally to purchase such goods. over 1000 lots every can also offer two private suites accommodating 18 week. to 60 guests respectively. The larger of these suites Veggie Shepherd’s Pie Baked Salmon with Paprika Bourbon Maple Crust Auctions have traditionally been associated with At W&H has its own private bar, making it an ideal location Panache of Seasonal Vegetables antique furniture and collectables and whilst these still Peacock we are for weddings and other special occasions including delighted to include ex retail items in our sales as not form an important part of the calendar of sales held at civil ceremonies. Auntie Beattie’s Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce Peacock’s, nowadays one can also purchase ex retail only are they products that people want to buy, but by The secluded gardens and stunning marquee are White Chocolate & Pistachio Mousse products whether it be a flat screen TV, a washing re-offering such lots we are recycling second hand goods just perfect for wedding photography with the Warm Treacle Tart with Cornish Clotted Cream machine, a Makita drill, a pair of designer jeans or trainers and being environmentally friendly. beautiful backdrop of the Manor. Lemon Brulee Cheesecake or even a bottle of perfume. So when considering that new flat screen TV or As one of the prime locations for wedding Manor House Cheeses Items are consigned coffee maker don’t forget auctions have changed and of receptions in the area, Moreteyne Manor has an to us by large retail course you will be buying at less than the retail price. Freshly Ground Coffee and Teas - Mince Pies excellent reputation for delivering first-class businesses due to minor So it makes perfect sense to buy at auction - recycle, customer service complemented with a beautiful cosmetic damage, save money and the environment! venue that is unique for all types of wedding marked packaging, over Woburn Road, Marston Moreteyne, Beds, MK43 0NG Tel: 01234 767003 ordering, end of line or For more information on forthcoming auctions contact receptions. www.moreteynemanor.co.uk E: [email protected] W&H Peacock on 01234 266366 just because the original Open Tue to Sat for lunch and dinner (Functions only on Sunday) retail purchaser or [email protected] www.peacockauction.co.uk For more information telephone 01234 767003 or visit www.moreteynemanor.co.uk

44 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 45 nce you know your son or complement the outfit. They have to be daughter is getting married a happy with the final look. O wedding is just the excuse you Whilst the outfit must be perfect for need for dressing up. Bride aside, all the occasion it is important to have the eyes will be on the mums. correct lingerie underneath which can Cream of Royston has been trading alter the whole look of a garment. Cream in Royston for 44 years and is has a well stocked lingerie department predominantly a special occasion store. which can be tried with the outfit. A free The extensive stock, on two floors, is alteration service is available on all full colour co-ordinated for ease of selection. priced outfits bought in store - a fitting Everything is available from outfits (sizes being carried out one month before the 6-24) to shoes and bags, hats, event, thus ensuring a perfect fit. fascinators and lingerie. Brands stocked Shoes and bags are made in include Condici, John Charles, Ispirato different heel heights in Spain in beautiful and Ann Balon. Less formalwear from leathers and Rainbow Club can be dyed Isabella, Frank Lyman and Gina Bacconi to match the outfit. Feel free to pop in or is ideal for a day at the races, wedding book an appointment. abroad or guest at a wedding. The Sale shop ‘Occasions For Less’, Mothers usually purchase their outfits located adjacent to Cream, offers mother four to six months before the event and Advertiser’s Announcement of the bride, shoes, bags and hats from customers are given the option to change good idea to either blend or contrast with previous seasons, all at fantastic prices. it if they see something they prefer later, this. It is very important to be comfortable Why not pay Royston a visit, just 12 but they rarely do. Once everything gels with what you are wearing. A shift dress miles south of Cambridge. There is and you have that wow factor you have with a jacket is always a popular choice something for every occasion and found the outfit. It is usual for mothers to because you can take the jacket off in budget. co-ordinate with the wedding party. Many the evening when things warm up. brides have a colour scheme for Elegant and slightly understated Cream, John Street, Royston. Open bridesmaids and mens suits and it is a always works and a hat should 9.30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. For That Special Occasion MOTHER OF THE BRIDE SPECIALIST (ESTABLISHED 44 YEARS IN ROYSTON) Condici • John Charles • Ispirato • Claudia C • Ann Balon • Linea Rafaelli Luis Civit • Gina Bacconi • Lewis Henry • Frank Lyman

Sizes 6 - 24 • Free Alteration Service • Matching Hats, Fascinators • Shoes & Bags available Lingerie from Fantasie, Charnos, Lepel, After Eden, Royce & Triumph. Cup sizes AA - H John Street Telephone 01763 244073 Royston www.creamfashions.com SG8 9BE [email protected]

46 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk THE PERFECT VENUE

At Hanbury Manor we don't just host events... we make memories. 'Tis the season to celebrate! Teeming with merriment and magic during the festive season, Christmas at Hanbury Manor is always a delight.

rom themed Christmas parties to afternoon teas Classic, Extra Sparkle or All The Trimmings packages. Make your by the open fire place, festive dining and spa Christmas party go down in history by creating an experience to packages, our warm welcoming atmosphere wow. From bubbly bars to balloon walls, videographers to dessert F tables; treat your guests to something extraordinary from our allows you, your colleagues, family & friends to event Wish List. celebrate in style. Whether you are looking for an inti- For more information contact our Events Team on mate party or that memorable, once a year party for the entire office, you will 01920 487722 or visit have a magical time. The stunningly www.memoriesmademarriott.co.uk/hanburymanor/christmas refurbished Poles Hall is the ultimate party setting with sparkling chandeliers, a vaulted ceiling and minstrel's gallery - perfect to let your hair down and dance the night away! For those who wish to extend the celebrations, stay in one of our beautifully appointed rooms and suites and enjoy access to the onsite spa and leisure club.

Count on our dedicated Memory Makers to help bring your vision to life. Party essentials, festive food and added extras to make your event sparkle are all wrapped up in your choice of our

48 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk COVER TO COVER

THE BOOK REVIEW PAGES Recommended Reading A regular appraisal of interesting books, some by local authors, with a county connection of just a jolly good read.

Editor’s Local Local ured feat Author Author book

Peterborough Victoria Crosses Bigamy, Bankruptcy, Great British In The The First Lie Great War On The Western Front War and Divorce Family Names When news of the war first Vsiting the First World War We’ve all had sleepless A bundle of passionate For better or worse, what broke out in 1914, the battlefields, the author often nights thinking about it. but unclaimed love letters we are is often determined citizens of Peterborough wondered where the various You’re home alone. written a century ago and by our family; the events could not have been Victoria Cross actions took Someone breaks in. found in a London bank that occurred many years prepared for the changes place. He resolved to finnd In defending yourself, vault have led to the before we were born, and that would occur over the out. Victoria Crosses on the you end up killing the uncovering of an the choices that were next four years. This book Western Front is designed intruder. Now you’re the extraordinary story. made by our forebears are takes a detailed look at for the battlefield visitor as one the police want. Research has revealed the our inheritance - we are Peterborough’s much as the armchair That is the situation that adventures of a spirited the inexorable product of involvement in the Great reader. A thorough account criminal barrister Paul young woman who by family history. So it is with War from commencment of each VC action is set Reeve arrives home to the standards of the time, nations. The history of in August 1914, to the within the wider strategic find. His wife Alice or perhaps any time, Great Britain has been Armistice in November and tactical context. Detailed stands in the bedroom, behaved scandalously. Yet largely dened by powerful 1918, covering in great sketch maps show the area clutching a bloodied she managed to avoid and inuential families detail its affect on the city today, together with the letter opener in her disgrace, get her man, whose names fill the pages and the every day lives of battle-lines and movements shaking hand. and go on to lead a of our history books. its people. For example, of the combatants. It will “What have you done, respectable life. Iconic family names like the factory Werner allow visitors to stand upon Alice?” At first sight Ellen Wellington, Nelson, Pfeiderer & Perkins at the spot, or very close to, “I didn’t have a Nelsen’s behaviour Shakespeare, Cromwell, Westwood Works was where each VC was won. choice...” appears shocking. Among Constable, De Montfort forced to change its name Photographs of the battle We would all believe the other misdeeds she and Montgomery. They to Perkins Engineers due sites richly illustrate the person we love most. appears to have been reflect the long chequered to the anti-German feeling accounts. There is also a But would we all make bigamously married history of Britain. at the outbreak of the war. comprehensive biography the same choice Paul twice. Given her This book is a snapshot of Edith Cavell, the famous for each recipient, covering and Alice make next...?. circumstances, however, several hundred such British nurse, grew up in every aspect of their lives, A.J. Park’s real name is her survival is a triumph family names and delves Peterborough and was shot warts and all: parents and Karl Vadaszffy. Karl of fortitude over betrayal. into their beginnings and dead in 1915 for assisting siblings, education, civilian Vadaszffy is the author of Richard Hart is a derivations, making exten- the escape of Allied employment, military career, three novels: The historian who has written sive use of old sources, soldiers from Belgium. wife and children, death and Missing, Sins of the and produced a number including translations of This book is a poignant burial/commemoration. Father and Full of Sin. of books on the history of The Domesday Book, The testimony not only to her Other information reveals He is a freelance Toddington and Leighton Anglo-Saxon Chronicles, bravery, but that of the some fascinating characters, journalist and the Head Buzzard plus thousands as well as tracing many city’s people and their with links to many famous of English at a secondary of newspaper and through the centuries to momenteous efforts. people and events. school in Hertfordshire. magazine articles. the present day.

• Victoria Crosses On Tnhe • Bigamy, Bankruptcy, • Peterborough In The Great War • The First Lie • Great British Family Names Western Front War and Divorce • By Abigail Hamilton-Thompson • By A. J. Park • By John Moss • By Paul Oldfield • By Richard Hart & Paul Brown • Hardback £12.99 • Paperback • Hardback £19.99 • Hardback £40 • Paperback £15.99 • isbn 978-1473860124 • isbn 978-1409187431 • isbn 978-1526722805 • isbn 978-1473827103 • isbn 978-0750991452

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contained an average of 400 of the tiny fluff-covered seeds. My Image: courtesy and copyright Tim Sharrock garden has an area of one acre, so a simple calculation showed the World, such as Australia, where they have been introduced, New contributors are always invited to that it contained around 1.6 million seeds. They had come from they have then become unwelcome invaders, competing with submit original articles for consideration. a large tree, which stood a hundred metres or so away, beside native species. Apparently, despite the prolific seed production the River Ivel, the fluffy seeds having been blown over by a evidenced in my garden, they seldom reproduce sexually. If you enjoy writing about local history or have an enthusiastic interest in aspects of your town or village life, or gentle easterly breeze. Many had, of course, also dropped in the Whereas the literature says that a single tree can produce perhaps you have a personal recollection you want to share, intervening field outside my garden, but there they had thousands of seeds covered in white ‘wool,’ which are dispersed then we would like to hear from you. disappeared among longer vegetation. It was only on my by the wind at the end of April, renowned tree-expert Alan trimmed lawn that they were so obvious, and also in places Mitchell stated that “Female trees are very rare.” Tel: 01462 819496 email:[email protected] where the breeze had drifted them into snow-like drifts against It took this unexpected event to draw my attention to a tree www.countylifemagazines.co.uk walls and doors. that, although I had always admired it from a distance, was far This striking phenomenon had not previously been more interesting than I had realised. apparent in the 40 years that I have lived at this location, That was back in May; how about now? It’s the time of year perhaps because the tree does not produce so many seeds every when the Swallows are congregating on telephone wires and year, or perhaps because the wind direction had not been from chattering together prior to their departure for South Africa. the east and they had not been blown westwards, into my House Martins will also soon all be gone, though late nests may garden, before. still contain a brood of nestlings even in late October. The arrival The tree’s main interest to me over the years had been the of early winter visitors from farther north - Fieldfares, Redwings, nests in it of Kestrel, Jackdaws, Stock Doves and, currently, Short-eared Owls, Woodcocks and the like - will be overlapping Green Woodpecker. This unusual seed-dispersal event did, with the late-departing summer migrants. These times of change however, make me pay more attention to that tree. I had always are always exciting for birdwatchers, coming just after the admired it: the tallest tree in the neighbourhood, with an more-boring post-breeding period of late summer, when resident attractive shape and a wonderful silvery appearance resulting species become elusive as they skulk in bushes and undergrowth from the white undersides to its leaves. Carelessly, I had while moulting. Territorial song has almost ceased, bringing a assumed that it was a White Poplar Populus alba, but reference strange silence to the woodlands. to appropriate literature revealed that that species is much There may be a final flutter of butterflies in late autumn, smaller, barely half the size of a Grey Poplar P. canescens. Leaf- with Commas, Speckled Woods, the occasional Painted Lady (or shape (lacking distinct lobes) soon showed that it was indeed a flood of them if it is a ‘Painted Lady Year’) and especially Red the latter. The meanings of the specific scientific names are Admirals coming to the year’s final spikes of purple Buddleia similar: alba meaning ‘white’ and canescens meaning ‘covered in flowers and to fallen plums and apples. This is, however, the white,’ describing not only the colour of the undersides of the perfect time to go looking for the fruiting bodies of fungi. If it is leaves, but also the general appearance of the tree’s foliage from a warm and damp, mushrooms and toadstools may abound in distance. woodland. With over two million species worldwide, and over Grey and White Poplars are both dubiously native to 150,000 species known in the United Kingdom, identification England, and are thought more likely to have been introduced can be a challenge even for experts. Relatively few are deadly, but here by the first human settlers after the end of the last Ice Age. many may make you ill, and they can look remarkably similar to Both species reproduce readily by suckers, and in some parts of those that are harmless and delicious. So take great care!

AUTUMN - WILDLIFE PUZZLE: Question: What links the UK’s commonest finch, the UK’s largest bunting, a white-rumped summer visitor related to the thrushes,

and scarce migrant birds in the UK that could have a white spot or a red spot on their breasts, with our smallest rodent which has a prehensile tail? (Answer below)

Answers. with HARVEST Mouse. HARVEST with link which and BluethrOATS) WHEATear, Bunting, CORN (CHAFFinch, grain to relating names their of parts have all four first The

52 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 53 GREAT DAYS OUT

STRATFORD- UPON-AVON Although the home of the world’s most famous writer, William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is also home to an eclectic mix of antique centres, speciality cheese shops, boutiques, superb restaurants and, of course, those quintessentially English tea rooms!

he name ‘Stratford-upon-Avon’ derives from the Old English word ‘straet’, T meaning ‘street’ or ‘ford’ (confirming that a Roman road forded the river Avon at the site of the old town) and ‘avon’, being a Celtic synonym for ‘river’. In 1490, Hugh Clopton (Lord Mayor of London in 1483) commissioned the building of the 14-arched bridge over the river, which, although an ancient monument, is still the main thoroughfare in and out of the town.

The Cotswolds was once a major sheep-producing area and, until the latter part of the 19th century, (home of Shakespeare’s wife Anne’s family prior to PHOTO STORY - ABOVE: The river Avon flows peacefully through Stratford-upon-Avon and on to Bidford-on-Avon, providing an idyllic Stratford-upon-Avon was regarded as one of its main their marriage); and, at Wilmcote, Arden’s House opportunity to view the surrounding countryside. Image: courtesy / copyright, Stratford-upon-Avon District Council. centres for the slaughter of sheep and the distribution (Palmer’s Farm), the family home of Shakespeare’s of wool. Locally, ‘Sheep Street’, was the hub of this mother. At Snitterfield, elsewhere in the district, are Shakespeare Company (RSC) at the Royal Shakespeare Heritage Motor Centre (home to the world’s greatest activity but these days has a reputation for being the farms and buildings that belonged to Shakespeare’s Theatre. The theatre, built in 1932, is the RSC’s main collection of British cars). location of a fine selection of restaurants. father’s family. performance arena and includes a thrust stage and an Every year, in October, Stratford-upon-Avon hosts Set in rural south Warwickshire, the small, Both Wilmcote and Shottery are on the route of auditorium able to seat more than 1,030 audience the Mop Fairs. Once a feature of many English towns, picturesque and historical town attracts millions of the hop-on, hop-off city sightseeing buses that operate members, with public areas, including a rooftop café these fairs are traditionally held on or around ‘Old visitors every year. Many just enjoy a stroll around the regular schedules throughout the day. Walking tours and restaurant. The theatre is also accessible to people Michaelmas Day’ and date back to the early 14th town centre; others are attracted by William with Stratford Town Walk are also popular. But it is with disabilities, and offers a comfortable theatre century. There are also plenty of other family Shakespeare - ‘the Bard’ - visiting the five houses perhaps the arts culture which makes Stratford-upon- experience. attractions to enjoy all year round, including the relating to his life, which are owned and cared for by Avon the perfect destination for a short break or Although the town is well known for its Stratford Butterfly Farm, the Creaky Cauldron, the the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. These houses longer holidays, affording the opportunity for visitors connections to Shakespeare, there are plenty of other Falstaff Experience, Stratford Armouries, Bancroft include: Hall’s Croft (home of Shakespeare’s daughter, to immerse themselves in a wide range of festivals, attractions to visit in the surrounding district. These Gardens and Stratford Racecourse. Within the town Susanna, and her husband, Dr John Hall); Nash’s theatre, live music and art galleries. Without doubt, include: the famous castle at Warwick (said to be the itself, the town walk and the river cruises are popular, House and New Place (both once owned by this arts culture remains the hub of this vibrant town. finest medieval castle in England); Kenilworth Castle but it is the elegant horse-drawn carriages, which Shakespeare and the latter being where he died); close No visit to Stratford-upon-Avon would be (one of England’s most spectacular castle ruins); the delight pedestrians, that provide a perfectly elegant to the town, at Shottery, Anne’s Hathaway’s cottage complete without seeing a production by the Royal award-winning Compton Verney Art Gallery; and the and sedate form of transport for touring the town. continued on page 56

54 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 55 GREAT DAYS OUT

This Christmas give the gift of Comfort and Joy with our range of ESPA Christmas gifts, treatments and gift vouchers which will delight and relax the ones you love.

continued from page 55 Stratford-upon-Avon has something to suit everyone and every budget. Unique attractions abound, with historical buildings, stately homes, idyllic villages, health spas, golf and leisure facilities, cycleways, vineyards, canals, undulating countryside, slowly meandering rivers, waterways, and more besides! Swans glide along the river Avon, willow trees overhang the PHOTO STORY - TOP: Pear Tree Cottage once belonged to water’s edge, swaying gently in the breeze as barges William Shakespeare’s parents, Mary (nee Arden) and John Shakespeare. manoeuvre slowly around the canal basin. The Holy ABOVE - L to R: The wonderful Heritage Motor Centre, home to the world’s greatest collection of British cars; Henley Street, where Trinity church, where Shakespeare was baptised and visitors will find Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust. where he is also buried, acts as a beacon for the town Images: courtesy / copyright, Stratford-upon-Avon District Council. and helps make this the most perfect of English landscapes. USEFUL WEBSITES TO VISIT A great day out, and one you’ll want to repeat, www.efbensonsociety.org www.mappandluciarye.uk Gonville Place | Cambridge | CB1 1LY whatever the season! www.visit1066country.com/explore-1066-country/rye 01223 221 117 www.gonvillehotel.co.uk e: [email protected]

56 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 57 GREAT DAYS OUT

DEDHAM If culture is your thing, the Dedham Vale is the place to visit. The charming villages, rolling landscape, meandering river Stour and ancient woodland have moved artists and writers throughout the centuries to create some of their greatest work. So, stay a while in this quintessential, peaceful corner of rural England and discover just what inspired these great names. image: copyright: Alan Humphreys 2014 Alan Humphreys copyright: image: PHOTO STORY - ABOVE: Dedham’s peacful high street with Sherman’s House and its leafy clad exterior. OPPOSITE: B&B’s and luxury hotels provide a warm welcome.

ith its gently undulating landscape, meandering inspired some of these great names, including John river and picturesque villages, the Dedham Vale Constable, well-known as one of England’s greatest landscape W Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), on painters. the Suffolk/Essex border, embraces one of our most cherished The Dedham Vale has been a source of creative landscapes and represents, what is for many perhaps, a inspiration for many other artists and writers over the perfect rural idyll. And from our county it makes for a centuries, inspired, no doubt, as a result of the dramatically fantastic great day away or relaxing weekend break! seasonally changing landscapes, and as we approach the A quiet rural area, the country lanes can quickly become autumn season we can expect a rainbow of warm, golden congested. Although it is perhaps easier to travel to the colours. In winter, the valley floor is clearly visible, Dedham Vale by car, the area is well served with good public occasionally blanketed in a carpet of fresh snow while, in transport services. spring and summer, the valley becomes more enclosed with If culture is your thing, the Dedham Vale is the right leafy green lanes and woodland canopies. place to visit. The charming villages, rolling landscape, Dedham, East Bergholt and Flatford probably have some meandering river Stour and ancient woodland have moved of England’s most instantly recognisable views and, due to artists and writers throughout the centuries to create some of the strong connections with John Constable, the area has their greatest work. So, stay a while in this quintessential, affectionately become known as ‘Constable Country’. peaceful corner of rural England and discover just what Visitor’s can follow in Constable’s footsteps and walk

continued on page 60 2014 Alan Humphreys copyright: image:

58 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 59 and the wealth of the industry can be seen in the magnificent churches and timber-framed houses, which were endowed by wealthy merchants. The merchants funded the building of large, extravagant churches to show not only their wealth but also to buy their place in heaven. Sheep were folded on a lot of the land and came to be regarded as the ‘golden hoof’ for their contribution to the fertility of the land and their valuable fleeces. The Suffolk sheep was bred from the Norfolk Horn and the Southdown breeds, and was much sought after as a fat-lamb sire. As well as being the birthplace of John Constable, this part of Essex/Suffolk was also home to another of Britain’s most famous painters. Known for his landscapes and portraits, Thomas Gainsborough was born in 1727 in nearby Sudbury, where his home is now open as a museum and gallery. Born in Suffolk in 1878, Sir Alfred Munnings was a talented equestrian artist as well as a painter of portraits and landscapes and a wonderful sculptor. His home and studio, on the outskirts of Dedham, is open to the public. John Nash was an esteemed painter, illustrator and engraver, who spent many years of his life in his beloved Bottengoms Farm in Wormingford. Initially, he focused on war but, following the end of World War I, his attention turned to the alluring landscape of the Dedham Vale and Stour Valley. On his death, Nash left Bottengoms Farm to his great friend, the author Ronald Blythe, who lived close by. Blythe is perhaps most well-known for his classic evocation of life in the Suffolk countryside in the book Akenfield - Portrait of an English Village (1969). image: copyright: Alan Humphreys 2014 Alan Humphreys copyright: image: image: copyright: Alan Humphreys 2014 Alan Humphreys copyright: image: Father of BBC correspondent Martin Bell, Adrian Bell was a PHOTO STORY - ABOVE: Willy Lott’s house and the viewpoint where Sir John Constable once stood and captured the famous image of The Hay Wain. journalist, farmer and author, who went on to compile The Times BELOW: Stunning St Mary’s church keeps a watchful eye on the village of Dedham. OPPOSITE PAGE - TOP: Places to eat and indulge include traditional tea shops. crossword. Bell lived for many years in Suffolk, at one time just CENTRE: A short walk to discover more. BOTTOM: *The village sign depicts Dedham’s heritage (*reproduced courtesy of Colchester Information Centre) across the Stour Valley from his friend John Nash. Nash helped Bell

continued from page 58 by illustrating his book Men and the Fields with woodcuts and engravings. down Fen Lane in East Bergholt, alongside the Tom Keating reputedly forged over two thousand works of river Stour to Dedham, where John attended more than one hundred artists. Although never successful in his school (reputedly at Sherman’s House, own right, he found fame through his imitations, which he called opposite the church. Look out for his initials his ‘Sexton Blakes’ (cockney rhyming slang for fakes), which, since among the graffiti of past pupils). One of the his death, have become increasingly sought after. Keating is buried views he saw along his daily route to and in Dedham churchyard. from school proved the inspiration behind his There is an indulgent selection of places to eat in the area: iconic oil on canvas painting entitled The traditional tearooms serving sumptuous cream teas; atmospheric Cornfield, which he completed in 1826. and inviting pubs selling hearty lunches; and restaurants offering With a history spanning back as far as the exquisite fine dining. There is plenty on offer to tempt your taste Bronze Age, the stunning church of St Mary buds and, after enjoying the fresh autumnal air and scenery, 2014 Alan Humphreys copyright: image: the Virgin, a bustling art and craft centre, the nothing beats a cosy self-catering cottage, luxury hotel or friendly Sir Alfred Munnings Art Museum and many B&B to relax and prepare for your next day’s adventure. There are independent shops and boutiques, as well as plenty of accommodation establishments to choose from in the eateries offering everything from decadent Dedham Vale and for further information an excellent resource is cream teas to romantic fine dining, Dedham www.dedhamvalestourvalley.org where you can find a truly does have something for everyone. downloadable walks/cycle routes and further information on the A visit to the Dedham Vale’s historic Dedham Vale and Stour Valley. You will also find links to centre reveals a rich and colourful past. Rural accommodation, visitor attractions and eateries in the area, as well trade and industry has always been an integral as train and bus timetables at www.visitcolchester.com part of this area and evidence of the wool trade and the working river is abundant. DON’T FORGET TO VISIT The wool trade was England’s major • National Trust Bridge Cottage, Flatford. Beautiful sixteenth-century thatched cottage export commodity for generations and the with a permanent exhibition about the life and works of John Constable. Middle Ages saw the start of the great cloth • Flatford Mill Field Centre, Flatford. A stunning setting for residential and day courses in environmental and arts-based subjects (not open to casual visitors). making industry in the east of England. • Sir Alfred Munnings Art Museum, Dedham. Home and studio of Munnings, housing a Throughout the famous Suffolk and Essex large collection of his work. • Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury. Birthplace of the great artist and now a museum and

wool towns the river was the trade route 2014 Alan Humphreys copyright: image:

gallery displaying many of his works. courtesy Centre Colchester Information Reproduced image:

60 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 61 PROPERTY FLAGBOARD Town & Country Homes

ENJOY NORTH NORFOLK LIVING ALL YEAR ROUND

HOME BUYERS CONSIDERING RETIRING OR SIMPLY LOOKING TO DOWNSIZE ARE BEING ENCOURAGED TO LOOK AT THE LUXURY CORNFLOWER STYLE BUNGALOW AT LOVELL HOMES’ HEATH FARM DEVELOPMENT IN HOLT.

set aside for family. Heath Farm is a unique collection of beautifully crafted two, three, four and five-bedroom houses and bungalows with private gardens. The homes have been designed in keeping with the surrounding areas and finished to a high specification. Perfectly placed to enjoy the very best of the English to advertise telephone 01462 81 94 96 [email protected] countryside, buyers can immerse themselves in the acres of beautiful outdoor Located within walking distance of the delightful Georgian market town of Holt, the Cornflower would make the perfect home to enjoy retirement, or to take advantage of single level living. The development is also under five miles from the stunning North Norfolk coastline.

The Cornflower is ideal for buyers who may require a more accessible home. This 1295sqft three-bedroom home comes complete with an open plan kitchen / diner with double doors leading into the living room where buyers will find French doors leading into the enclosed rear garden. Adrian Garrood, regional sales manager for Lovell, said: “There are many benefits that come with living in a bungalow including reduced energy costs, no stairs to climb and spacious space at Holt Country Park and enjoy miles of sandy beaches living across one level. on their doorstep. “Heath Farm has been extremely popular; I’d advise anybody Buyers will be spoilt for choice in Holt with a fabulous s who is interested to act fast as we only have a few bungalows election of pubs, cafes, restaurants and small independent available for sale.” shops just a short stroll from Heath Farm. The bungalows at Heath Farm are also available with Part Currently bungalows at Heath Farm are priced from £415,000. Exchange, meaning a guaranteed buyer for your old home at fair market value with no stress and reduced estate agent FOR FURTHER INFORMATION costs*. Call 01263 223 497 Downsizing can be a means for buyers to release equity and or visit visit https://www.heathfarmholt.co.uk/. use the extra capital to fund an adventure packed retirement or COUNTY LIFE COUNTY

62 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk THE SHORT STORY

Priceless by Jess Perrin

ne sunny morning holding a folding plastic George rolled up his sleeves, ready for action, “I’m fine,” he lied. It would have been nice to in early March, chair in one hand and a revealing a faded tattoo on his left arm. It was from turn in, but that would be admitting to his condition. George and Hetty paperback, The Mayor of his army days in the parachute regiment. The words Hetty cleared the table, filled the dishwasher, and Clarke stood Casterbridge, in the other; a ‘Love You Mother’ were still legible. Hetty didn’t the two of them went off to the lounge. Grimacing Olooking out of their patio story by Thomas Hardy approve of the tattoo. She never had got on with with pain, George sat reading his book. In total door. George knew what about a man who sells his George’s doting mother. concentration, Hetty watched East Enders followed by Hetty was thinking and wife for five guineas. With the thrill of being at altitude still in his a cookery programme. waited for her to speak. The blonde hair which veins, George raised a leg and shouted, “Geronimo!” After the Ten O’clock News, the Clarkes went “I should be out there,” had so attracted Hetty to He liked trying to impress his woman. upstairs; Hetty first, carrying two filled hot-water she said. George had now whitened “You’re mad!” said Hetty, placing the loppers on bottles and several gardening magazines. George, Hetty enjoyed tending and thinned, but was offset the wall, thinking that now he was up there he might wincing his way up the stairs behind her, was her large flower garden, but by big blue eyes and a face as well do the job. “Just be careful,” she added. clutching The Mayor of Casterbridge. it was all getting a bit too suggesting a mind of George picked up the loppers and made light “You’d better use the bathroom first. I’ll give you much for her. pleasant thoughts. His trim, work of reducing the prickly shoots. Hetty raked a hand,” Hetty said, as they entered the bedroom to “Give it another day or slightly bowed frame looked them into a pile on the lawn then forked them into get ready for bed. She slid the hot-water bottles under two, sweetheart,” George good in his paint-splattered the wheelie bin, which soon filled up. the duvet. And to save a journey to her side of the quickly replied; his fawn corduroy trousers and “We’ll have to leave the rest until the bin men bed, she laid her magazines on George’s bedside table. endearing response a sure the green woolly cardigan he have been,” she said. After managing George’s ablutions and helping sign of indifference to his wore when doing jobs about “No need for that,” said George. “I’ll squash them him into bed, Hetty went to the bathroom, leaving wife’s favourite pastime. the house. all in.” him still grimacing from the pain on his right side but Years, and a little over- “Just look at that!” Hetty “Well, don’t try anything daft,” Hetty said, still trying to read. indulgence, had conspired said, pointing a glove at the relieved to be going in to prepare the evening meal. “Good grief, are you still reading?” Hetty said, to reshape Hetty’s once rampant growth of several George wandered round the garden looking for returning to the bedroom. attractive figure. Her tall pyracantha bushes that an object to use to compact down the prickly “The blighter Henchard has sold his wife for five auburn-tinted, shoulder- grew up against the high cuttings. He soon found it: half of a redundant paving guineas,” George muttered. length hair was supposed to boundary wall. slab. It was a bit heavy, but nothing else seemed “You and your stories,” Hetty sighed, too tired to show off the younger “Need a hand?” George suitable. pick up her magazines before getting into bed. woman, but such hopeful asked, without conviction; Using the slab made a lot more space in the bin, Tiredness soon closed George’s eyes. The book application had not smoothed the worried frown or thinking it wise to mention his availability before and the job was done. Exhausted, and feeling smug, slipped from his hand and landed with a gentle thud put a sparkle into her tired, hazel-coloured eyes. placing his chair in a sunny spot. George returned the day’s equipment to the shed and, on the floor, rousing him just enough to reach out George still said how much he fancied her. She often “No thanks,” Hetty replied, not wanting her work holding his book, paused for a few moments as he and switch off his bedside lamp. On her back, and thought how nice it would be if he also fancied gar- ruined by her husband’s casual attitude to gardening. gazed in awe at the beginning of a crimson sunset. snoring, Hetty’s response was to turn on to her side, dening. “But I shall need the steps and loppers from the Entering the kitchen, his nostrils filled with the stop snoring and fall into a deep sleep. Hetty planned her garden to help nature direct its shed,” she added. smell of his favourite meal: roast beef and Yorkshire Next morning, alone in the marital bed, George show of seasonal scenes. Gone now were the George hastily obliged. pudding. This pleasant sensation was followed by a lay with his right leg straying into his wife’s vacated trembling snowdrops so defiant against the extremes Hetty set to work, while George sat near the back wicked pain that shot down his back and into his space; a location which seemed to ease his discomfort. of the weather, yet helpless against so short a lifespan. door reading his book. With one eye on The Mayor of right leg. He gasped, hardly able to move. He gazed up at the window into another cloudless Daffodils were nodding and swaying their golden Casterbridge and the other less frequently on his wife, “What on earth have you done now?” Hetty said, sky. Hetty will be out there, still trying to keep up, he heads in submission to the light breeze. In lesser he dozed off. He was awakened by the sound of the as George grabbed the back of a kitchen chair for thought. majesty - but equal beauty - primulas, sweet violets metal steps being closed. Hetty was about to set up a support. Unable to get out of bed except for critical visits and cyclamen crowded the borders. Tulips with their new position. George noticed that she had left some “It’s only a twinge,” he replied. “I managed to get to that cold little room on the landing, George heads still wrapped in bulbous green covers would shoots uncut, so brought this to her attention. everything into the bin.” finished reading The Mayor of Casterbridge. To relieve soon be bursting forth. Still to come with a flourish “I can’t reach them with these,” she said, holding George was seizing up like a bearing that had run the misery of his confinement, he also read through was the summer scene of hyacinth, dahlia, sweet pea out the loppers. out of oil. all the magazines that Hetty had left by the bed. They and snapdragon. And throughout, blackbirds, robins, “I’ll do it. It won’t take a jiff,” George said. A short “Silly old fool,” Hetty muttered, but thankful that seemed to spark a whole new interest and and a host of other welcome winged visitors, would read and forty winks had revived his interest in all those cuttings were in the bin. appreciation for gardening, and helped reduce his perch impatiently on the rim of a stone pedestal activity. Not waiting for an answer, he got up and, Pain took the edge off George’s appetite, but he pain. He now couldn’t wait to be with Hetty, out in birdbath, waiting their turn to flap furiously in the leaving The Mayor of Casterbridge on his chair, wouldn’t leave any. the garden. water. climbed the steps and stood bolt upright on top of the “You’d better soon get to bed,” Hetty said, as the “Five guineas!” he said to himself. “My wife is Despite George’s suggestion to delay, after an early boundary wall. stricken man was finishing his roly-poly pudding and priceless!” lunch Hetty stepped outside. She looked the part in “Now, Het, pass me the loppers.” custard. her blue jeans, matching fleece, ankle-length brown “Don’t be daft, George! You’ll fall.” 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 boots and thick suede gloves. George joined her, “Het, just pass them, will you?” illustration purposes only. If you have a short story (1400 words maximum) you would like to submit for the editor’s consideration, and to share with our readers, please email it to [email protected] or post to: County Life / Select Publishing (Short Stories) P.O. Box 32 Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 8TE

64 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 65 THE LAST WORD A PICTURE OF England Bridal photography courtesy of TiMaRos Images TiMaRos Bridal photography courtesy of The Four Star Old Palace Lodge Unveiled The Front Door The Tudor Wall Gardens he front door is many things Doors are a window to another to many people. To some, it world; a very private world where T represents an insight into the we exist on our own terms. Not all The only walled gardens in Bedfordshire licenced for civil ceremonies character and personality of their of us can choose where we live, and home; an interpretation, perhaps, of our dream home can remain as just an individual’s personality. To that - a dream home. However, the others, it’s a drawbridge: a method humble front door can - and always of defence that affords protection will - stamp an individual’s mark from external perils seen as a threat. on their property. Whenever, and wherever, I A row of terraced homes might travel, I’m always inquisitive as to lack individuality, but the front door who might reside behind the defines identity. spectacle of doors - in all their various shapes, sizes and colours. Ed D

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