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® COUNTY LIFE MAGAZINE CambridgeshireAUTUMN ISSUE 2020

THE GRANSDENS - on the cover

If you would like to advertise in our next hard copy edition of Cambridgeshire County Life email us today [email protected]

HOWEVER...

If you can’t wait to advertise in our next edition we can upload your advert to our latest online e-edition of Cambridgeshire County Life. Simply email Down your way Great Escapes - Boasting beautiful Georgian [email protected] Peaceful, sedate and photogenic, the Gransdens boast a proud towns, miles of beaches and the Broads... Norfolk is calling. heritage, including a connection with Yugoslav royalty and the legendary RAF Pathfinder SquadronSquadron. Grand Days Out Aspects of County Life Witney and Minster Lovell... TINSELLED TALES: A story of festive legends County Life recalls this and myths and a period in history when gem of a Cotswold dream. £3.25 Christmas celebrations were banned. Also... MYSTERIOUS MICHAEL: A childhood Visit once and you’ll want memory of life with Michael, the lodger. to return again soon!

Down Your Way • Aspects of County Life • History & Heritage • County Connections • The County Gardener • Wildlife • New Books • Lifestyle • Seasonal Features • Grand Days Out • Great British Traditions • A Picture of England • The Short Story • New Homes FIRST WORD Your Autumn Edition

Hello and welcome back!

Such a lot has changed since we published our spring edition. At that time, Storm Ciara, and her big brother, Dennis, had caused mayhem in the UK and, as most things arrive in threes, I casually mentioned something called Coronavirus. Little did we realise, at the time, how Covid-19 would impact on everyday life. Lockdown was surreal; a time for reflection, a time to realise, as a society, just how much we take for granted.

We certainly owe a great debt of appreciation to the NHS and the tireless efforts of those who work under its banner. However, despite this hard work, it seems that Covid-19 has extended its presence in our society, and one so widely extended, that it covers the four quarters of the globe.

During the months of lockdown, I received emails from many readers requesting publication of more archived articles. More recently a contributor’s grandson made contact asking if I could supply back copies containing a trilogy of articles written by his grandfather. I was happy to help.

I trust that this issue’s editorial content continues to fulfil somes of these requests.

Down Your Way features the Gransdens. Aspects of County life include the following: The story of festive legends and myths; Mysterious Michael - the lodger who vanished; Autumnal gardening tips; Grand Days out features Witney and Minster Lovell while Great Escapes features North Norfolk; British Traditions; Nature Notes; The Short Story; and to conclude, A Picture of England. NONE OF US HAD 20:20 VISION FOR 2020 Finally, Lesley, myself and the team would like to thank our readers, contributors and advertisers for their valued and continued support of WE ARE GIVING 21% OFF County Life. We wish you all well. As a brave new society begins to emerge, will life ever be the same again? Only time will tell. In the meantime, take a KITCHENS WHEN ORDERING FOR 2021 INSTALLATION break from Covid-19, face masks and hand sanitiser, find a quiet corner of your world and relax with County Life.

(conditions apply) Enjoy! lan Bax... Dimensional freedom - Variety - Quality - Hand crafted A KITCHENSMITHS 4 Station Road, Histon, Cambridge CB24 9QL Tel: 01223 236456 [email protected] www.kitchensmiths.co.uk facebook.com/kitchensmithsltd www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 3 YOUR LETTERS

DEAR COUNTY LIFE ...

LOCK DOWN LIFESAVER...

As I write, lock down has eased. However, during the height of being restricted to the confines of the family home, I had time a-plenty to catch up on all the small jobs that required my attention in the house and outside in the garden. However, once all those to-do boxes had been ticked, I soon developed a sense of impending boredom, which, thankfully, I managed to fend off by unearthing my catalogue of back issues of County Life, which I absorbed with much delight. The content kept me in touch with a sense of past normality and made me reflect on so much I had taken for granted pre-Covid-19. Should we ever lose touch with our history and heritage - not to mention Mother Nature’s abounding beauty - it would be a very sad time. Thanks County Life for playing your part in maintaining my sense of gratitude for those things I had started to take for granted. A lovely read from start to finish.

Darren Melford - Royston From the editor... I completely understand your sentiments and observations on the fragility of life!

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Write to County Life at ... Pen-ultimate letter

DEAR COUNTY LIFE ... email:

[email protected] When I was 7 years old, I would spend many hours during the summer months visiting my grandad. Pen to paper: I’d help (or at least thought I was helping!) with

County Life Magazines some of his weekly tasks including attending to his PO Box 32 garden. I also enjoyed walking to town with him Biggleswade and visiting the local corner shop. I remember that Bedfordshire he would buy me sweets, as reward for helping SG18 8TE him, and he would buy himself a magazine, which Have your say - make a comment or he’d take home and read in his back garden and recommendation. Our ‘Pen-ultimate’ always with a pot of tea within arm’s reach. letter will receive one year’s subscription I recently cleared my grandad’s home and came to our Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire or across those magazines piled high in his study. Hertfordshire editions; redeemable as a No prizes for guessing his favourite read... gift subscription to a friend if preferred! County Life Magazine, no less!

David Norfolk Monmouthshire 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 2020 ISSUE 54 REGULARS

16 • ASPECT OF COUNTY LIFE Tinselled Tales

21 • UNDER THE HAMMER Desirable design 25 gransdens • COUNTY GARDENER 37 The mellow season on the cover 26 • FROM THE ARCHIVES y and all moral rights in such text, photography images. Front cover image copyright Alan Humphreys 2013 Tabloid and chips irrevocable, non-exclusive right and licence to use, reproduce modify, modify, non-exclusive right and licence to use, reproduce irrevocable, 32 • GREAT ESCAPES 25 publisher ose of the editor and should not be taken as such proprietors, The Eclectic North Norfolk coast

34 • GRAND DAYS OUT Relive a Cotswold dream

36 • NATURE NOTES What can you find in South-East England 37 • BRITISH TRADITIONS 10 A little of what we love 48 • SHORT STORY down your way 21 Time to relax and unwind 50 • THE LAST WORD The Gransdens A picture of England SPECIAL 28 • THE STROLLING PLAYERS FEATURES From the middle of the 18th HISTORY ASPECTS OF SUBSCRIBE

century nearly every town of any editions and assert in future and waive an and to re-publish developed, unless otherwise directed nology now known or hereafter

HERITAGE grant Select Publishing a perpetual, royalty-free © 2020 Select Publishing. Contributors automatically and hereby ntents remain 32 • THE NORTH NORFOLK COAST 16 size would receive visits from CAMBRIDGESHIRE LIFE aterial submitted is sent entirely at the owners risk. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily th in this magazine are at the owners risk. The views and opinions expressed aterial submitted is sent entirely companies of strolling players, 10 32 especially during fairs and • CAMBRIDGESHIRE Whatever your thoughts of festivals. The better companies HAS A CLUSTER OF Christmas, spare time to ponder on JEWELS IN ITS CROWN: would perform within inns, town the bubbling brew of rural folklore halls and public rooms, while The Gransdens are and modern customs associated with poorer groups performed in a quintessential English 34 villages. Peaceful, sedate, this magical time of year. barn or stable; the hayloft acting photogenic and uniquely as a makeshift gallery. 16 GRAND DAYS OUT... REVISITED representative of so many • TINSELLED TALES Subscribe to Cambridgeshire’s The Cotswold dream villages in the county of During the 16th century, celebrating Christmas was against traditional county magazine for image: © www.mrobinson-photography.co.uk 28 Cambridgeshire. the law. Banned by Oliver Cromwell, and only re-instated as a JUST £23 A YEAR A quarterly miscellany of 34 • WITNEY AND MINSTER LOVELL. They also have a proud national celebration when Charles II was King, this bleak CONTRIBUTORS Cambridgeshire life, home Elvira Adams - Peter Dean - Zenna Hagger The small Oxfordshire town of Witney boasts a heritage, including a period gave rise to many myths and legends surrounding interest, days out and lifestyle Alan Humphreys - Dean Juniper connection with the famous blanket that shares its connection with Yugoslav Christmas. in the county and beyond.

W&H Peacock - Jess Perrin - - Betty Puttick Tinselled Tales Mike Robinson - Tim Sharrock - Sarah Tait name, not to mention a connection with a past Prime royalty and the legendary is a story of festive legends and myths born See page 29 and editor cannot be held responsible for any statements or views expressed editorially within the content of this magazine. Co for any statements or views expressed and editor cannot be held responsible and distribute such text, photography images into any form, medium or tech derivative works from publish, translate, create Minister who added a celebrity status to the area. RAF Pathfinder Squadron. out of the ban. All m in whole or part without written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Reproduction All rights reserved.

6 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 7 COUNTY LIFE MATTERS COUNTY LIFE MATTERS Quantum Care Hadham raise a glass to good health, Kitchensmiths welcome back clients Bury Lane Farm Shop TEAMS NAMED HEROES TEAM SPIRIT AND ENTERPRISE OUT OF ADVERSITY TO SHOWROOM WITH COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES IN PLACE EXCITING RELAUNCH OF DELICATESSEN THIS AUTUMN WE ALL SPENT TOO LONG AT HOME during the dreaded lockdown. And OVER THE PAST FEW MONTHS Bury Lane Farm Shop’s focus STAFF IN QUANTUM HADHAM BREWERY has true perhaps many of us stared at our kitchens vowing to do something about it has been on their excellent customer service, successfully CARE HOMES across brewing ‘terroir’. A term usually when it was ‘safe to go out’. remaining open throughout the lockdown with all necessary Hertfordshire were associated with winemaking, terroir A few months later and, perhaps a little bit wiser, there is no better time to keep COVID-19 safety measures being implemented whilst ensuring their delighted to be named is the manner in which an area’s that promise to yourself and sort out your kitchen issues. guests have a relaxed and enjoyable shopping experience. Heroes of Hertfordshire climate, soils, terrain and traditions Kitchensmiths in Histon, are back and are welcoming clients to their showroom. The cafe reopened during the summer with socially-distanced by the Lord Lieutenant combine to produce a unique Like most things in life, a few changes have been put in place at Kitchensmiths tables inside and outdoors. Diners have once again of Hertfordshire, Sir product. Despite this, the arrival of showroom, to ensure the safety of their staff and clients alike. been able to enjoy Robert Voss. Covid-19, had a massive impact on A showroom visit is now by appointment only, so clients can feel safe in the delicious freshly Each home received a the business, with its grip L to R: Mark King, William Compton, Matt Dixon take a glass of Hadham Gold knowledge that there will be only a few people in the showroom at any one cooked food letter, certificate and badge in recognition of their care and support to threatening output. time. ‘By doing this we can dedicate better time to each client, as well as including traditional the older people of Hertfordshire during the Coronavirus pandemic. It is said that great ideas are fuelled by friends and a great beer in hand. factoring in cleaning time between clients’ commented director, Martin Smith. Sunday roast lunches Image: Carers at Richard Cox House, Royston. A letter from the Lord Lieutenant stated, “It gives me great pleasure to The team at Hadham is no exception and, during lockdown, hard work and ‘Face masks and sanitizer are obligatory for staff and clients as they walk (booking advised), enclose a ‘Hero of Hertfordshire’ certificate as a small token of thanks imaginative marketing ideas saw the shoots of recovery start to emerge as the around the showroom, and the essential face to face meeting is conducted with friendly table for the support you have given to the people of Hertfordshire in recent business recovered from the downward turn. The familiar and popular Hadham through our fabulous safe screens.’ Martin continued, “The installation team are service and great times… On behalf of the people of the county I want to thank you for core range of beers slowly became a firm favourite with online shoppers, and also clued up on Covid-19 and will leave your new kitchen clean and sanitized seasonal menu truly being a Hero of Hertfordshire”. the Hadham’s website worked its magic. This trend still continues. Head at every stage when fitting your kitchen. ‘But the important things that haven’t choices. Chief Executive Maria Ball said, “It means so much to all of our teams brewer, William Compton, commented, “We had to change our business changed are our superb design ideas, our listening ears and our attention to This family-owned to receive special recognition, such as this, from the Lord Lieutenant. model very rapidly when Covid-19 hit. Luckily, we had just taken delivery of a detail. Our range of kitchen styles, from four different brands, is immense and independent farm This has been the greatest challenge that we at Quantum Care have massive order of beer boxes and started to market our ‘Beer-in-Box’, both I’m confident we will have the right style for every occasion - and covering a shop is renowned for its high quality food hall and giftware ever faced and we are truly humbled by the sheer determination, online and to pubs, who would take phone orders for their customers to wide range of budgets too.’ department and the delicatessen is relaunching towards the end of professionalism and passion that our colleagues have shown each collect and from the brewery door.” William continued, “With plans to develop To make an appointment, call Kitchensmiths and head up to Histon (just north September. With a newly appointed buyer, who is an acclaimed and every day towards the residents in our care. On an individual our own Tap Room, we have now applied for a licence to sell bottled beer. It is of Cambridge) and kick-start that promise to yourself and start planning the new Master of Cheese and World Cheese Award Judge, Bury Lane will basis, and working as teams right across our homes, they have been amazing how, in the face of adversity, we fought back from Covid-19 and, in kitchen you so deserve. Telephone 01223 236456 be championing local, British and European cheeses and deli nothing short of exceptional”. For more information on any of the process, also increased our production. The team at Hadham thank trade email [email protected] or visit www.kitchensmiths.co.uk products. Tastings will be positively encouraged! Quantum Care homes or their services visit www.quantumcare.co.uk and domestic customers alike for their support during lock-down and, as or Email [email protected] Tel: 01707 393296. restrictions start to ease.” For more details visit www.hadhambrewery.co.uk Hadham construction - A structured apporach Elouise Lingerie TO MODERN DOMESTIC AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS OPEN BY APPOINTMENT North Norfolk Holiday Lodges ELOUISE ARE DELIGHTED to welcome their customers back to their OFFERING AN ESCAPE FROM URBAN LIFE AS MODERN METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION (MMC) EMERGE, boutique in the village of Buckden! To ensure customer safety, and offer a one local company continues to excel in advanced design and use of modern more enjoyable and relaxing experience and to avoid disappointment, an FANCY A BOLTHOLE materials. Using engineering software and computer-controlled manufacture to provide IN IDYLIC NORTH appointment system has been introduced Monday to Saturday between a unique solution to the design, manufacture and installation of light steel structures. NORFOLK? You are all HadFrame and HadHouse are both brand names of Hadham Construction Ltd, part the hours of 9am and 5pm. Drop in appointments are also invited for Established over 35 years ago, and continuing to be at the forefront invited to view this amazing of the Hadham group of companies. lingerie fitting and styling or simply to browse the wonderful selection of of fine foods, with knowledgeable staff, a comfortable shopping development of luxury holiday Hadham Construction Ltd specialise in the design, manufacture, and assembly of the lingerie, swimwear and nightwear. What’s more, there is no obligation to environment and a ‘customer first’ approach, Bury Lane is a unique Lodges in the popular and HadHouse and HadFrame light-weight steel frames and structures system for the purchase! Customers who are unable to visit the boutique are reminded and special destination in the south Cambridgeshire area. picturesque Georgian village construction of residential and commercial buildings...(houses and sheds). Light weight that Elouise continue to provide an excellent shopping experience via their For more information and up to date news, go to of Burnham Market in North steel construction is 30% faster, 30% cheaper and 30% better than traditional website. To complement this service Elouise continue to provide help and www.burylanefarmshop.co.uk Norfolk. construction.Using modern materials requires no wall cavity giving excellent insulation, advice over the phone or via text and email together with other social media www.facebook.com/burylane/ The Poplars is located in the low lifetime running costs and reduced fire risk. Efficient use of materials, low waste, platforms. For details call 07538 354701 or telephone 01763 260418 village of Burnham Market itself and is only a short walk to its village green, gal- no site waste, low transport costs, longevity and efficiency are all trademarks of Baker Brothers Diamonds leries, shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Stunning beaches and many local Hadham Construction’s structured approach. attractions are also just a short drive away. WELCOME BACK WONDERFUL CUSTOMERS For more details call 01279 771238 visit: www.hadhouse.co.uk www.hadframe.co.uk Auctions are back at W&H Peacock The Poplars will comprise of www.hadhamconstruction.co.uk or email [email protected] BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER 2020 HAS BEEN A TOUGH YEAR for 46 contemporary lodges all Baker Brothers Diamonds, as it has with fantastic outside space W&H PEACOCK AUCTIONS ARE been for many other independent to spend valuable time with After 40 years family-run business BACK, and due to businesses. The COVID-19 pandemic friends and family alike. JOINS THE HADHAM GROUP OF COMPANIES covid restrictions, has been a massive shock, however, The lodges offer sophisticat- FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS, family-run business, L. H. Cook Plumbing and viewings are now held with a strong team and a loyal customer ed and bright colour Heating Ltd, have earned an enviable reputation in all aspects of Plumbing and Fridays 9am - 8pm and base, Baker Brothers are doing thier schemes, integrated appli- Heating Work. Serving the counties of Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire Saturday 8.30am - best to push through. ances, plenty of storage and and Suffolk the company provide all aspects of plumbing, boiler servicing and 12noon. A limited Despite having to close for two months following the government high-quality finishes, all set within beautifully landscaped grounds, and a private repairs for both private, industrial and commercial premises, including Landlord number of people are guidelines, Baker Brothers is back up and running with some new gated entrance for added security. gas safety inspections and same-day service for all emergencies. Whilst L. H. being permitted in the regulations. They are back open by appointment only and, if you book This makes them ideal for a range of potential buyers, from families and couples Cook Plumbing and Heating Ltd have become part of the Hadham group of salerooms at any one time and strict social distancing measures to come into the store there will be a limited amount of customers in looking for an escape, to investors interested in a buy-to-let opportunity with companies they remain as committed and passionate about working with their are in place. the store at one time. There will be hand sanitizers and gloves and attractive estimated returns of circa 10% in this popular area of Norfolk. domestic, industrial and commercial clients to provide excellent heating and Sales are currently held live on the internet, as W&H Peacock masks will be in use together with screens in place for both customer In fact, since opening their doors on 4th July, 10 homes have already been sold plumbing solutions, and now have the financial and technical support to ensure cannot allow bidding in person on the day. and staff safety and regular cleaning taking place throughout the day. and with prices starting from only £299,995 you can see why. continued growth and excellence. Entries are still invited Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday Baker Brothers can’t wait to see their wonderful customers again. To For more information on The Poplars visit: www.poplarsburnhammarket.co.uk For more information contact: L. H. Cook Plumbing and Heating Ltd 8.30am - 5.00pm. All details are availale via W&H Peacock’s book an appointment call on 01234 352343 or visit thier website call 01328 854255, on 01279 842463 / 01279 842439 email or visit www.lhcook.co.uk website www.peacockauction.co.uk www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com or email [email protected]

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

The Gransdens

Picturesque, quintessentially English, villages.

Peaceful, sedate and photogenic, the Gransdens have a proud heritage, including a connection with Yugoslav royalty and the legendary RAF Pathfinder Squadron.

by

Alan Humphreys

he Gransdens are sleepy, three sons and King Peter II of well manicured, and Yugoslavia, was exiled during T quintessentially English World War II, once owned the villages located four miles to the windmill, the old mill and the north-east of Gamlingay, a short adjoining farm land. She is distance from the border with recorded on a British Pathé Bedfordshire. newsreel, which shows her Gransden was mentioned in speaking from the porch of the 973, when it was spelled house and walking in the grounds ‘Grantandene’. It is referred to as accompanied by two of her sons. ‘Grante(s)den’ in the 1086 She lived a relatively normal life Domesday Book and the name without royal extravagance and ‘Gransden’ is said to be a died in exile in London on 22 June derivative of ‘valley of a man 1961. called Grante’. Great Gransden windmill was last worked circa 1890, although it was last wind-worked in 1911. By Image above: The majestic post mill was once On the roadside, just in front of the mill, is a although tucked away in a tranquil location, is probably owned by exiled queen Mother Maria of Yugoslavia. Great Gransden boasts the 1925, the mill was derelict, and memorial plaque to 405 RCAF Pathfinder Squadron, the centerpiece of the village. It has a pretty lychgate, oldest post mill in England. An later bought by Wallis Mills, who Photo: copyright 2013 Alan Humphreys who were based in nearby Gransden Lodge RAF which was built in 1920 to commemorate Great ‘open trestle’ post mill, it is set on waterproofed the body. In 1950, Station. The plaque reads: “From this RAF Station Gransden men who died in World War I. Their names low piers, and dates from some the mill was given to the county, Gransden Lodge 405 (Vancouver) Sqdn RCAF The are engraved in the structural stone supports. This time prior to 1694, reputably from who were responsible for its Pathfinder Force of No. 8 (PFF) Group marked the Grade I listed church was mentioned in the Domesday 1612. Queen Mother Maria of restoration, which took place targets for Bomber Command 1942–1945”. survey of 1086 and has a tower which dates to the Yugoslavia who, along with her during the period 1982 to 1984. Great Gransden’s pretty church of St Bartholomew, fourteenth-century, although the whole church was

continued on page 12

10 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 11 DOWN YOUR WAY

continued from page 11

rebuilt in the fifteenth-century and cottages, some dating from the restored in 1873. There is a rare clock, seventeenth and eighteenth-centuries. whose chiming mechanism is said to Along Crow Tree Street is a house date from 1683. Other notable artefacts which, apparently, takes its name from a in the church also include a pulpit Thomas Safford, who was a local dating back to 1600. landowner in the early seventeenth- The village has connections with century. To the north end of Eltisley Clare College, Cambridge, when the Road is Mannock Manor Farm, so advowson for Great Gransden church called after the family of Mannock, who was part of the original endowment of reputedly owned it from the fifteenth to the college. The village owes much to the seventeenth- century. The Fox Inn, this connection, and Barnabas Oley, a seventeenth-century half-timber who instituted the vicarage in 1633, house, lends its name to Fox Street, and was a fellow of Clare College and lived along Middle Street are the almshouses chiefly at Great Gransden. Besides founded by Rev. Barnabas Oley; a panel rebuilding the vicarage, he restored the Image top: The Gransdens have no in the south gable records the date as church and was mainly responsible for shortage of beautiful house, 1672. immaculately manicured and picture building the almshouses and a school- perfect. Little Gransden village, as you

house, although this no longer exists. Image above: Crow Street has might expect, evolved as an offshoot of Barnabas also left various other connections to a past landowner Great Gransden. Equally pretty, with Thomas Safford. benefactions to the village, where he sixteen listed buildings, including the died in 1685. Image far right: The village sign, Old Rectory, the parish church and resplendent against a blue skyline. Cottages grouped around the various houses, it also has two airfields, church are very picturesque, and if you Photos: copyright 2013 one of which was used in World War II. walk through the village you will notice Alan Humphreys The parish’s northern boundary many half-timbered houses and follows the line of a disused road

continued on page 14 12 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 13 DOWN YOUR WAY Moreteyne Manor

WEDDING BREAKFASTS - PRIVATE PARTIES - MEETINGS - & FOR ALL YOUR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Enjoy Christmas at Moreteyne Manor

December 2020 Menu

continued from page 12 Price Per Person £36.50 - inc of VAT between Great Gransden and thousands of pounds have been raised for local Cream of Celeriac Soup and Crème Fraiche with Garlic Croutons Longstowe, formerly called charities. Another popular event has been the Warm Crab & Welsh Rarebit Tart Deadwomen’s Way after Deadwomen’s Gransden and District Agricultural Society’s show, Smooth Chicken Liver Pate on Prune & Brandy Compote Cross at the north-east corner of the first established in 1891. Roasted Pepper, Artichoke & Goats Cheese Salad with Pesto Dressing parish. Little Gransden’s church, dedicated to Saints Moreteyne Hors D’oeuvres Due to its isolated location, Little Peter and Paul, has a tower which dates from Roast Norfolk Turkey with Cranberry, Apricot & Chilli Stuffing Gransden had no inns until 1800, but about 1390. Occupying an elevated position, it Beef Filet with Devilled Kidney Chutney by the 1840s four were recorded, overlooks the village, as if in a custodial role. Its Panfried Venison with Burgandy Pears including the Sun in Church Lane, the lofty embattled western tower contains three bells, Walnut, Mushroom & Feta Filo Parcel Chequers, the Double Chequers at Mill and there is a stained window installed by the Sea Bass Fillets with Wild Garlic & Lemon Butter Hill and the Hardwicke Arms. The Rev. Alfred Newby, former rector, in 1875. The Panache of Seasonal Vegetables popularity of the beer-houses was such church was restored between the years of 1885 Auntie Beattie’s Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce that, in 1834, the overseer of the poor and 1888 at a recorded cost of £700. A cross in Chocolate & Mascarpone Mousse with Kirsch Cherries considered them partly responsible for the churchyard commemorates Little Gransden Lemon Meringue Ice Cream Wafer Basket with Sicilian Lemon Gin Drizzle social decline. men who were killed in World Wars I and II. Raspberry Brioche Bread and Butter Pudding with Clotted Cream Manor House Cheeses At the outbreak of World War II, Image top: Little Gransden’s church is Peaceful, sedate and photogenic, with its Gransden Lodge Airfield was dedicated to Saint Peter and Saint Paul. proud heritage, including the connection with Freshly Ground Coffee and Teas - Mince Pies established and was in operational use Image above: Great Gransden’s village Yugoslav royalty and the legendary heroic bravery from 1941 to 1946. The parish has a sign holds its head high. of the RAF Pathfinder Squadron, the Gransdens

second airfield, Little Gransden Airfield, Image right: Leafy lanes around every are uniquely representative of so many of Woburn Road, Marston Moreteyne, Beds, MK43 0NG Tel: 01234 767003 which is a base for vintage and classic corner. Cambridgeshire’s villages, and a visit will leave www.moreteynemanor.co.uk E: [email protected]

aircraft. It has also played host to air Photos: copyright 2013 you wanting to return again sometime soon. Open Tue to Sat for lunch and dinner (Functions only on Sunday) and car shows and, since the first show, Alan Humphreys Article first published issue 27, Autumn 2013

14 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 15

ASPECTS OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE LIFE

TINSELLED TALES A story of festive legends and myths During the seventeenth century, celebrating Christmas was against the law. The festivities were banned entirely by Oliver Cromwell, when he appointed himself as Lord Protector.

by Sarah Tait

or the only time in English history Just like the rioting masses of the there was no ruling monarch and in seventeenth century, we still all love the ritual F 1652 one of the many laws of the and fantasy involved in our Christmas puritanical parliament was to forbid any celebrations. According to folklore, Christmas celebrating of Christmas. Jon Bunyan was in is also a festive occasion for other animals, fact a supporter of Cromwell’s republican and there are a wealth of myths, legends and army, although Bunyan’s views changed after traditions concerning birds, beasts and insects. the Civil War when he became a familiar How do cows and sheep feel about the figure as one of the new independent festivities? Well you could try asking them - it preachers. Suffice to say that the banning of was once well thought that most farm animals Christmas was a most unpopular move, with could talk during the might of Christmas Eve. riots ensuing throughout many parts of the Do take care though, because overhearing country. Christmas was eventually re-instated their discussions was deemed very unlucky. as a national celebration when Charles II Cattle were commonly believed to have their returned to the throne. own special way of celebrating Christmas,

continued on page 18

16 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk

ASPECTS OF CAMBRIDGESHIRE LIFE and Tinselled Tales Exceptional products

continued from page 16 As well as providing exceptional domestic work, kneeling in remembrance of their ancestors who robin knocking on doors, or carrying envelopes L. H. Cook Plumbing and Heating Ltd offer great once shared in the joy of Jesus’ birth in the in their beaks. Strangely though, folk tradition industrial and commercial plumbing and heating

Superior Service Advertising promotion stable. Sheep apparently like to turn and face has it that if he taps on the window with his services throughout Hertfordshire, Essex, the direction of the Holy Land on Christmas beak you should prepare for bad fortune. Since Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and the surrounding areas. Eve, as any good Shepard might once have told he may well be delivering bad news. And you. apparently the little bird brings disaster with The ‘little donkey’ doesn’t actually get a him if he actually enters your house. mention in the Bible story of Christmas, but Bees will be humming religious music on t is our aim to offer exceptional products As summer gives way to autumn, now put your trust in L.H. Cook Plumbing and popular tradition has certainly awarded him a Christmas Eve, and even spiders may turn their and customer service at all times; is the time to ensure that your central Heating Ltd to get the job done efficiently place in the tale. Modern carols and hyms praise thoughts to times long past. One of their kinds I whether it is for plumbing, heating or heating system is ready for the approaching and to a high standard. It is our policy to bathroom installation. We go the extra mile colder months. For example, our power always use high-quality components because his sterling efforts, and it is probably thanks to is alleged to have played a critical role in the for our clients and our servicing includes: flushing can improve the efficiency and this ensures the longevity of the work that those songs that we now think of Mary atop the story of Jesus’ birth. When Joseph and Mary new boiler installations (including Gas, LPG, running of your heating system, which we carry out. sturdy beast. Perhaps the donkey connection is had to flee from Herod with their infant Jesus, Oil, Solid Fuel, Warm Air, and Ground means you’ll be warmer this winter and use Based in Little Hadham, Hertfordshire, based on the old beliefs that riding a donkey is they hid inside a cave. A spider then wove a Source Models); boiler repairs; and the less fuel. We also offer quality boiler L. H. Cook Plumbing and Heating Ltd have a cure of many ills, including measles, and that thick web over the entrance of the cave, which supply and installation of heat pumps. We services and can cater for every type of recently become part of the Hadham group you’ll never see a dead donkey - if you do, it is ensured that Herod’s men never suspected that guarantee quality installations and annual boiler; and we are Gas Safe Registered. of companies. We remain as committed and said, you can count yourself blessed with great anyone could be concealed inside. Strands if servicing when you choose L. H. Cook We are passionate about all our work passionate as ever about working with our fortune. tinsel now reminds us of the spiders web which Plumbing and Heating Ltd. and the excellent heating and plumbing domestic, industrial and commercial We will visit your home, industrial or solutions that we provide, which also customers, and are proud to provide Christmas makes us think of snow, and saved the life of the baby Jesus. commercial premises to discuss your exact includes bathroom design, installation, and superior plumbing, heating and bathroom dark nights. The mention of chirping crickets is It is thanks to modern stories and songs requirements and can provide options refurbishment. Our craft has been honed solutions and services throughout more likely to remind us of lazy summer that we adorn our homes with pictures of flying tailored to individual budgets and over the last 40 years, and there’s little that Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, evenings and long-grassed meadows. But if you Reindeer. A poem by Clement Clarke, published timescales, with finance options available. we’re unable to do, which is why you can Suffolk and the surrounding areas. hear a cricket chirping in your home on in 1822, tells the story of eight Reindeer - Christmas Eve, you can count yourself Dancer, Prancer, Dasher, Vixon, Blitzen, Donder, extremely fortunate. Happiness, apparently, will Cupid and Comet. You will notice that a certain bound throughout your household if you hear Reindeer by the name of Rudolph isn’t this insect’s merry voice at this special time of mentioned. He didn’t exist until 1939, when a year. song about him and his red nose became a sure Ever a popular symbol of winter days, the hit. Yes, you know which song - its continued robin has a special place in our festive hearts. popularity today means Rudolph’s fame is truly His read breast is welcomingly familiar in our international. gardens, and his stout little body a friendly Many households will have unpacked the sight. But do you know how he came about this familiar Christmas decoration probably colouring? Many held the view that he including a ‘crib’. In 1224 Francis of Assise volunteered to fly down into Hell, in order to wanted to remind the local people of the bring fire to mankind. In his selfless bravery he religious importance of Christmas. He is said to got his breast feathers singed. Yet others have lead the locals up to a nearby cave, which affirmed that it was a robin that attempted to he had decorated with a beautiful nativity scene, cover Christ’s blood on him in the process. depicting the manger and the animals involved. Some people believed that the robin tried to St. Francis of Assise, remembered for talking to remove a thorn from the crown of thorns placed the animals, was concerned that perhaps people on Christ’s head - wounding himself as he were forgetting the true meaning of Christmas, attempted to alleviate the saviour’s suffering. and many might feel this to be the case these The robin is now probably the most widely days. used illustration found on Christmas cards. In Whatever your thoughts of Christmas, spare Victorian times postman had bright red the time to ponder on the bubbling brew of uniforms, the nickname for the postman was rural folklore and modern customs which tell us ‘red-breast’. This was the first time of the first of the animals, birds and insect associated with greeting cards, and so it would seem that the this magical time of year. robin is actually used to signify the postman

and the bringing of cheery news. Some of the First published in County Life (Bedfordshire) Winter edition, earliest examples of greeting cards show the issue number 7 - 1999

18 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 19 ASPECTS OF COUNTY LIFE UNDER THE HAMMER Desirable MYSTERIOUS MICHAEL Design W&H Peacock’s sales of Mid-Century furniture and From September, 1939, when I was ten, my birthplace of Bedford became a collectables have proved to be very popular with buyers municipal balloon, within three months doubling its population, and transforming looking for something out of the ordinary to furnish their homes.

itself, together with other small towns on the London periphery, into a throbbing, by W&H Peacock congested mini-metropolis. All sorts and conditions of evacuees descended on Bedford, judged accurately, as events proved, a bomb-free locality, and very pleasant also by the quiet sliding Ouse.

by Dean Juniper

y parents were both trained chiropodists, of our tenants, when the older Miss D. received a greetings perhaps the only ones in town, and the influx card from the Queen. She made no effort to conceal the card, M struck them like the bursting of a dam in the even inviting me to guess the owner of the hand-writing. By hills. All at once, it was standing room only in their this juncture, rumours about the Misses D. had truly begun waiting room, and a fortnight for an appointment. Most to bubble. of the adult evacuees sported corns or bunions; verrucae Bubble was about as far as they would progress, because, studded the children’s heels. three months later in early April (encouraged, no doubt by Mr. Chamberlain’s pre-mature taunt that. “Hitler had missed We had just moved to a large, terraced Victorian house, the bus”) they returned to London. They left my father 7/6 or the better to manage the joint practices. My father had taken 37.5p, a seriously insufficient sum to cover the transport of on a mortgage (his first) and finance had become an issue, so four trunks and a packing-case to London. I do not a decision was reached to let the entire second-floor as a remember if, or how, it all went. I do recall, though, that my self-contained flat, and the large first-floor back bedroom as a father opened the packing case and found it full of bulbs, bedsitter. Our lets were to have very different tenants over dug up from neighbouring gardens. The Misses D, were not the subsequent seventeen years. In the top flat there came returning to London empty-handed. and went a series of singletons and married couples, one pair I still boggle slightly on the meaning and purpose of the to remain lifelong friends. These were exclusively transparent Misses D. and will boggle for ever. Further in, I’ll be people without secrets, open folk with explicable mentioning forays in the Public Records Office but it’s ontemporary sales are jam-packed RECENT AUCTION HIGHLIGHTS backgrounds and unexceptional provenance. By contrast, the sufficient now to note that despite the most professional with British, Scandinavian and American Image - Above: A set of six Arne first floor drew tenants with something to conceal, intimate, efforts in search, little was learned there from. The older Miss C designs by the ‘outside of the box’ Jacobsen ‘Series 7’ chairs £900 touching, even vital mysteries. D. was undoubtedly the spinster daughter of a Victorian thinkers of the 1950s through to present day. Image - Right: A Gordon Russell On the first floor we led off with the Misses D. from general. But her companion was altogether outside the Sale results have been increasingly buoyant even tallboy £1,000 Hampstead, an intriguing duo, the elder, a most formidable system. It proved impossible even to establish the accurate in these strange times. Peacock’s custom built Image - Bottom right: A Danish county battle-axe in her seventies, the younger, a dishevelled, spelling of her name. auction centre and online bidding platforms are rocking chair £800 bustling, pop-eyed thirtyish woman who, to my horror and A three-year interval, free from tenants with mysterious perfectly placed to help you source these highly Image - Bottom left: A sculpture of an delight, invaded my father’s workshop, and made very free provenances followed. In fact, the first floor flat was not sought after items. owl by Anthony Theakston £460 use of his sacralised tools. empty; a succession of generally transparent lodgers came They were an undeniably confident, even seigneurial pair, and went, I recall a school-teacher, a retired nurse and a lady but very generous with all. My parents did not do Christmas, from a dress shop. And then in 1943 came Michael, or that is If you own anything which you think might be suitable for one of our but the Misses D. gave my brother, foster-brother and me a what we will call him, just to be on the safe side. Michael sales please contact Matthew Baker on 01234 266366 or for an proper celebration with a tree, presents and the trimmings. It was a spare sports-jacketed, fine-featured thirty-year old with approximate estimate, email us with a description and image of your item. For larger or multiple items, we are happy to arrange for a was a bitter dramatic winter, but I treasured the contrasts that a semi-military persona and a pleasantly not-too-cultured valuer to visit your home or premises at your convenience. the memories of tree and snow provide me later in life. And, voice. He said he was an engineer with the BBC, in the Tel: 01234 266366 or email: [email protected] at Christmas, we had something of the possible significance circumstances a very plausible occupation. www.peacockauction.co.uk continued on page 22

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

whose grapevine contacts, as chiropodists, gave them MYSTERIOUS MICHAEL sufficient material to run a vineyard, learned that he had joined the Fleet Air Arm. So late in the War this seemed a continued from page 20 little strange, but inasmuch as we knew him or the Fleet Air In order to demonstrate how plausible, I need to provide as far as their very busy lives permitted, with two Arm, it appeared a suitable match. A month or so passed, a backstory. By no means all the evacuees in Bedford were observations, final words on the topic from them. My father, and the grapevine jangled again, for the last time. Michael individuals or families. Bigger groups arrived; two or more perceptive with social nuances as Bedford-born, said Michael had been killed in a carrier accident. Nothing remarkable complete schools, to be accommodated somehow within the was a gentleman-ranker. By this I’m sure he meant that there about that; carrier landings were very risky manoeuvres. We existing school system. And the BBC, had come along too, or was a serious contradiction between Michael’s class and his all genuinely mourned Michael, but I was left uneasy with at least its serious music division, complete with the full occupation. And he was certainly right about this. Engineers, the completeness of our encounter, and its all encompassing Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Sir Adrian Boult. even of the electrical variety, did not wear brown closure. Not the least of the advantages that the town offered the sports-coats, talk home-counties posh, and have the brisk In the late sixties, I developed a minor and transient Corporation was the Great Hall of Bedford School, an demeanour of preparatory school-masters. They customarily genealogical passion, which, until I discovered an expert to acoustical if not an architectural gem, and, in the war years, wore overalls. They had oily hands. And, unless I read it do the searches for me, took me to St. Catherine’s House and the orchestra certainly seized its opportunity. wrong, they did not generally give the impression of wanting its massive quarterly volumes of Births, Deaths and Even as a pupil, I seemed to grasp that the relationship to be somewhere else; in my judgement in the Western Marriages. My expert had been at it for a while before I asked between the BBC and Bedford School must have been Desert, probably as a tank commander with the Eighth Army. him to look for Michael in the service deaths. And then in a complex, to say the least. On the one hand, were the needs of Michael only gave me one present. It was a novel. George widening revelation, I learned that Michael had not died in a a huge school with a war-augmented roll, a depleted staff and Greenfield’s Desert Victory is an astoundingly evocative work. carrier accident. He had not served in the Fleet Air Arm or, a curriculum crammed with war-related, extra-mural Written within a few weeks of its author’s survival of the indeed, in any other branch of the Services. It was time to activities. On the other side, there lowered a deracinated bloody battle of El Alamein, it exudes sand, flies and unmourn Michael. Corporation, determined to maintain, as a matter of war triumph. I remember Michael’s immense enthusiasm for it, I’m a grateful user of the BBC archives at Caversham, necessity, the near peace-time output, requiring rehearsals at and recall too my feeling that my father’s ‘gentleman-ranker’ near Reading, an incredibly rich resource, which I’ve mined all hours and live broadcasts on demand. description of him did not fit Michael. Though I could not with enthusiasm for years. It displays a picture of me in its The meshing of timetables must have required dedication then have formulated my doubts, I sensed acutely that our reading room. Yes, really. I should add, immediately, that my on both sides. On occasion, they over-lapped, however. lodger was not so much deprived of occupational status as face is a two millimetre blob amidst a couple of dozen Rehearsals cut into the final period before lunch. It was not ordered to fulfil some vital role when he would sooner have similarly sized blobs, the whole being a Bedford schoolboy merely a deafening noise, there were cultural clashes as well. been engaged in other fields. audience, which has, according to the caption, “sneaked into I treasure that moment, one late morning, when the My mother who favoured simpler more intimate the School Hall to listen to Sir Adrian Boult conduct the Orchestra started to tune up, and an exasperated senior explanations referred to Michael as a mystery-man. Then or Symphony orchestra”. Sir Adrian, quite rightly, looms language master burst out with, “Better prepare yourselves for now, I do not quarrel with her judgement. He was a big massive, similarly the strings. I love that caption with its sixty minutes of real competition; and there’s Bela Bartok on bundle of secrets. I thought I knew Michael well, but though implication that we boys were stealing a special treat. In the menu as well. God help us all!” And he was reckoned a we chatted and did more than chat, insofar as he regularly reality, we’d been ordered into the gallery under severe staff aesthete. helped me out, and most adroitly, with my onerous three penalties. I’ve always assumed that the BBC paid handsomely for hour homework, in what is now termed contextual Caversham archives have been very good to me. I’ve dug the facilities. That assumption hardened into certainty when, information, I learned nothing about him at all. deep into the history of television, not exactly an one evening in the early Spring of 1944, the school roof burst I was ignorant of his place of birth, school, college or overdocumented resource. Only recently, l discovered the into flames. A devastating fire developed, visible across the other training, and, broadening out the field of enquiry, at transmission frequency of the first play to be televised, a Bedfordshire plain for many miles; one which, providentially least another dozen items that might have been regarded as Pirandello piece, broadcast on the Baird system in 1930. I’ve the Luftwaffe failed to notice. Rumours and allegations woke routine background material, even casual scraps. In their also studied the personnel records of some of my childhood and spread. The BBC engineers, reckless flouters of the absence, and the realisation they would never be provided, radio favourites, stars like Derek McCulloch, ‘Uncle Mac’, a weaknesses of ancient wiring, had loaded the circuits they created a strange void. figure whose demands and peculiarities must have made his mercilessly? An improvident, casual School had misled the Although he was formally understood to be a BBC containment, leave alone his employment, an organisational Corporation into believing the circuitry had been uprated, engineer, there was only one occasion when I actually saw triumph. But not until very recently did I dare ask to see when in reality, it dated from the original installation way him on or near the job. I was walking out of Bedford School’s Michael’s supposed employment file. back in the eighteen nineties? None of these indictments grounds, on the St. Peter’s path, when I glimpsed him in the The Corporation is quite properly cautious about this seemed to stick, however, the modus-vivendi probably passage behind the bicycle sheds. He was wearing his brown, class of enquiry, and I was politely told that such files were deriving from the all-too-inescapable fact that London non-technical sports coat, and carrying a coil of wire under not for Public Scrutiny. Nevertheless, I could be informed if bombing had cut the Harpur Trust’s Holborn income in half, his arm. He gave me a nod only, but it variously said, ‘now Michael had a file. The archivist went off, primed with all I and thus all the Bedford schools were on the crusts of their you have it’, ‘just what you expected.’ ‘this should be knew. respective uppers. sufficient’ or ‘don’t look so surprised’! It was a patient, And then he was back. Somehow his news did not come So, Michael’s claim to be a BBC engineer had at least a avuncular look, utterly complete. as a surprise. There was no file for Michael. The BBC had surface plausibility. But surface was as deep as it went. My Quite suddenly, Michael left us. It was a total break. No never employed him. parents were not suspicious folk. In that respect they differed forwarding address, letters for him or telephone enquiries. greatly from their nosey elder son. Yet they went on record, For some months we heard nothing. And then my parents Article first published in Bedfordshire County Life, issue 43, Winter 2008

22 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 23 THE COUNTY GARDENER

The Mellow Season

by Peter Dean

utumn is a mellow time of could even consider preserving them chillies or aubergines you might have year, when the amount of in your freezer to enjoy during the in the greenhouse will now be at their A daylight slowly fades. Trees winter months. best. Having matured during the show red and orange hues, as leaves The vegetable garden can now be summer these can now be picked. fall to the ground, and fungi push dug over, although, nowadays, many Turning our attention to the lawn, their fruiting bodies into the air. gardeners use the ‘no dig’ system. you might want to consider the use of Green manure may be sown on bare ‘weed and feed’ mix. This will kill off ground to boost soil structure and any grass weeds while fertilizing the Little cyclamen flowers dance improve fertility. Clover-rich manure grass. Then scarify the lawn with a under trees and perform; their purple provides a good source of nitrogen and scarifier or spring-tined rake which or white petals giving a soft cover to should be dug in before spring will remove all the dead moss and the ground. planting commences. Ultimately, this grass and allow the lawn to breathe. In the flower beds there are will benefit crops the next spring. Depending on the weather, you rudbeckia and echinacea cone flowers Runner beans, which will be might like to give the lawn its last cut offering regal beauty, while verbena coming to an end, can be pulled up of the year, but do raise the height of bonariensis still pokes through, to and the now straggly plants the blades. If we have a warm autumn, dominate the flower patch. Bees gather composted. At the same time maincrop cutting can continue until the first the last of the rich nectar - buzzing potatoes will be ready for digging up, signs of a winter frost. freely - and, by September, stone fruit, as indeed will be some autumn carrots, Autumn remains a beautiful like plum and damson, will be ready swede, turnips and parsnips. ‘All the season. It is a joy to venture outside for picking. year round’ and autumn lettuce vari- among fallen leaves. Enjoy the As a result of the warmer spring eties will provide a salad base for the ‘mellow fruitfulness’ in the dewy mist. and summer months, some fruits will last of the tomatoes. Watch spiders on their webs and already be dropping, so it is important We mustn’t forget the greenhouse! marvel at the red hips on wild rose’s. that you collect them before they This should be cleared of all the spent All these things, and more, can - and decay on the ground. Pears, apples and cucumber and tomato plants, which should - be enjoyed. You won’t be autumn raspberries should be can now be composted. You can then disappointed! harvested and can be carefully stored clean the area they had been growing Follow Peter in every edition of County Life and plan in boxes, or bottled in Kilner jars. You in readiness for winter. Any peppers, ahead for each new season!

24 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 25 FROM THE ARCHIVES

View From The Valley

TABLOID AND CHIPS by Elvira Adams

ext to roast beef and Yorkshire pregnant and expecting my brother and and salt to taste and, of course, not pudding, lamb and mince as I was full of energy I must have worn forgetting that magic ingredient N sauce, sheppards pie and her out. newspaper, which seemed to epitomise bangers and mash, high on my list of Many years later my young brother the fast food of the mid 20th century! favourite foods was fish and chips! became a Wolf Cub in our local Scout Next to roast beef and Yorkshire group and after each social evening he pudding, lamb and mince sauce, There was always something special would visit Choppards with his pals. I sheppards pie and bangers and mash, fish about cod and two-pen’eth of chips - just was a Cub leader at the time and nothing and chips is still high on my list of the description along sounded good - but would stop me going with him for our favourite foods! dowsed with a liberal sprinkling of chip supper, which usually included a Article first published Bedfordshire County Life, issue 56, proper vinegar and salt, in a grease-proof pickled onion, or two! Summer edition, 2012 bag and double wrapped in newspaper, Customers would travel from all over added the finishing touch! It is most to buy Choppard’s fish and chips and definitely a true taste of the 1930s, 40s happily join a long queue waiting and 50s, a time when mobile vans and patiently to be served. In fact a friend’s fish and chip shops sold just fish and father would regularly cycle some chips and perhaps the odd pickled distance, every week, to buy the family’s accessary! supper. The lovely smell of the nation’s Sometimes after going to the local favourite dish, tantalising my nostrils, cinema, and as a treat, paticularly when was an irresistible temptation! With the my mother didn’t much feel like cooking, Did You Know? wind blowing in the right direction there we would call into Choppards for our was nothing better than the smell of fish evening meal which we would take home • As a nation we spend £1.2 billion each year on fish and chip shops. and chips being cooked. and serve up with a cuppa!

When I was young I liked cod fried When I was younger not a lot of • Cod is the most popular fish sold in fish in batter, in fact I prefered the batter to families owned a car, instead relying on and chip shops, accounting for 61.5% of fish the fish. I still have fond memories of my buses or bikes to get anywhere. So taking sold, followed by Haddock at 25%. local ‘chippy’ and in my youth I would the fish and chips home would require regularly frequent Choppards. The man my mother to re-heat them on the top • Fish and chips was the only take-away food behind the counter would always greet shelf of our oven! not to be rationed during the Second World me with a smile and the same question, These days fish and chip shops have War. Frederick Lord Woolton, Minister of “Same again Elvira?” He knew me well diversified and sell a whole range of Food at the time, even allowed mobile frying vans to carry fish and chips to evacuees because I was knee-high to a grasshopper meals but, alas, the large pile of tabloid around the country. when my mother first started taking me papers have dissappear from the counter to this fish and chip shop. I was so small top and the food is now served in • As far back as 1838 Charles Dickens wrote that I could not see above the counter anything but grease-proof bags and that about fried fish warehouses in the classic unless I stood on tip-toes. Our usual double wrapping of newsprint! The novel ‘Oliver Twist’. These warehouses acted order would be cod and chips and a advent of heat-retaining containers and as the forerunner to fish and chip shops - but bottle of Corona cherryade pop, for me! sterile looking white paper ensures the the partner to fish wasn’t the traditional chip, My mother and I would sit at one of the food is piping hot when it arrives at its rather bread or baked potatoes. The fish was tables in the shop and eat our meal. destination - but does it taste as good? sold for about a penny a portion by street vendors who carried the goods in trays hung Quite frankly I think my mother needed There is nothing quite like the smell around their necks. a rest from cooking because she was of fish and chips with lashings of vinegar

26 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk FROM THE ARCHIVES all-trades - even printing their own playbills and Never miss an issue... painting the scenery - while the manager’s wife often washed the costumes, and then, decked out in faded satin, feathers and make-up for the SUBSCRIBE stage, would be there to take the money when the audience arrived. One marvels at the stamina of the companies who travelled the country to County Life Magazine performing after hours on the road to a high- Bedfordshire spirited, rowdy, audience. Hertfordshire One man who started life in a workhouse, Cambridgeshire around 1767, was John Richardson, who, by * 1782, had joined one of the down-at-heel I year for companies of strolling players. Richardson quickly became disillusioned with the life and went off to London where, at the famous only Bartholomew Fair, he found his real forte. Unable to read or write, Richardson nevertheless had an £23 unerring instinct for pleasing the public, and, * Four issues a year published quarterly over the years, his combination of theatrical flair and good business sense brought him prosperity, and Richardson’s Portable Theatre became the largest and most spectacular of its kind in the country. Always a prominent part of the great Bartholomew Fair in London, Richardson also took his splendid entertainment to all the country fairs. Once inside, the audience found a theatre 100 feet long and 30 feet wide with luxurious red plush draperies glowing romantically in the soft light of the oil lamps, enjoy a consistently where 1,000 playgoers could be entertained at a good mix of THE STROLLING PLAYERS time. Plank seats were arranged in tiers facing a articles focusing on raised stage with a painted proscenium and an Boom! Boom! The little man in the tall hat beat his drum for all he was worth... orchestra of five violin players in military towns, villages and the strolling players had come to town! uniform and the actors’ handsome satin and the county’s velvet costumes sparkling with gold lace and by history and braid. Richardson’s theatre was the equal of any Betty Puttick of the London theatres, and in its heyday was heritage - estimated to be worth £3,000. and not forgetting rom around the middle of the money’s worth as the evening’s Many actors, later to make their name, some outstanding 18th century nearly every entertainment offered a full programme of started with Richardson. The leading parts in his F town of any size would receive plays interspersed with comic songs and dramas were generally played by actors, from the photography. visits from companies of strolling dancing; all performed by the same London theatres, temporarily down on their luck players, especially during fairs and members of the company. Any musicians and glad of Richardson’s 25 shillings a week festivals. The better companies were often expected to act as well. In one wage. Edmund Kean worked for Richardson YOUR DETAILS, please complete in CAPITALS would perform within inns and inn old actor’s memoirs he describes, with and, when the former had Drury Lane at his feet, Title Mr / Mrs / Ms Forename yards, town halls and public rooms, feeling, a typical evening in which he, the old showman was proud to be there to see while poorer groups living from “performed King Richard, gave two comic him act Shakespeare’s Richard III. Surname hand-to-mouth were often reduced to songs, danced a horn pipe, spoke a Richardson died in November 1837, aged 70. In spite of generous amounts given to charity in performing in a barn or stable; the prologue, afterwards Harlequin, and after Address hayloft acting as a makeshift gallery all this fatigue, my share came to three his lifetime, he still left over £20,000 - some in with a tattered curtain and a few pence and two pieces of candle!” bequests to his faithful players and musicians. No candles to divide the stage from the In a sharing company, all the actors doubt he also left many happy memories with Postcode audience. received equal shares, but the manager those audiences he entertained at venues where Please indicate which edition you are subscribing to: (£23 per edition) took the lion’s share to cover his expenses. he brought something of the magic and glamour Bedfordshire Cambridgeshire Hertfordshire Arguments often went on behind Some managers merited their reputation as of the theatre with Richardson’s Portable Theatre - STARTING THIS ISSUE STARTING NEXT ISSUE the scenes over the limited costumes, scoundrels, apt to decamp with the the famous travelling show. I enclose a cheque payable to SELECT PUBLISHING but the playgoers certainly got their takings; others were hardworking jacks-of- Article first published Bedfordshire County Life, issue 48, Spring edition, 2010 PLEASE POST TO: COUNTY LIFE MAGAZINES PO BOX 32, BIGGLESWADE, BEDFORDSHIRE SG18 8TE

28 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 29 COUNTY LIFE STYLE An open and shut case... The rise of open-plan kitchen extensions Advertiser’s Announcement

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30 County Life GREAT ESCAPES image: copyright 2018 Alan Humphreys Alan Humphreys 2018 copyright image: Escape to the eclectic North Norfolk coast

Boasting beautiful Georgian towns, dog-friendly beaches, the waterways of the Norfolk Broads and the sights and sounds of city life, Norfolk offers a relaxing lifestyle with an eclectic array of lovely places to eat,

and a wealth of gift, arts and crafts and antique shops just waiting to be discovered. 2020 www.mrobinson-photography.co.uk courtesy of and copyright image: Compiled by Alan Humphreys snowdrop walk, where the Abbey’s Outstanding Natural Beauty, to the 18 acres of woodland are carpeted nearby Victorian seaside town of here are so many great locations in with snowdrops. Sheringham. Look out for the seas Norfolk and most will provide an If you appreciate wholesome of red poppies and then you’ll ideal location for a weekend break food there is an abundance of know where the railway gets its T with the opportunity to embark on a places to eat. There are also many name! mini road trip within this spectacular beauty spots to explore, with some A number of special events are county. The pretty market town of Burnham to be found scattered along the organised throughout the year, Market is a prime example affording the coastal road. So, park up, get out including nightjar walks, mini beast perfect place to shop, dine and absorb a and explore. Blakeney Point is a safaris and treasure hunts. A little traditional Norfolk village atmosphere. good example. It is famous for its further afield, why not visit Felbrigg seals and, as a designated National Hall, garden and park - a wonderful Alan Humphreys 2018 copyright image: If you seek a little bit of peace and quiet, you’ll Nature Reserve, it attracts many National Trust property with Market is a stone’s throw away be hard pressed to find a better location than visitors, who come to birdwatch. woodland and lakeside walks, or from the stunning North Norfolk Norfolk. Here you can enjoy the renowned On your way you could stop off Sheringham Park, a beautiful coastline. This village is the perfect Norfolk lifestyle and, with the beautiful and scenic and visit the pretty market town of countryside park on the North place to shop, dine and absorb its coast within easy reach, you could head off to image: courtesy of and copyright 2020 www.mrobinson-photography.co.uk Holt, where you will soon feel your Norfolk coast. traditional village atmosphere. places like Wells-next-the-Sea, Blakeney, Images: As a major centre of pilgrimage, worries slip away. Rebuilt after a Further along the coast, Renowned for its open spaces and Sheringham or even the Victorian seaside town of Top: Holt. Walsingham has a rich vein of devastating fire in 1708, the town Wells-next-the-Sea is an attractive nearby coastal walks, a traditional Cromer to take in the refreshing sea air and Above: Burnham Market. history running through its has a wonderful character, with town with a long, sweeping beach village experience awaits, with an Photo: Courtesy M. Robinson Photography sample the freshly caught sea food, for which this Opposite main: Burnham Overy Staithe. timeline. It is said that a vision of colourful Georgian buildings and a and a harbour where children can eclectic array of independent area is renowned. Photo: Courtesy M. Robinson Photography the Virgin Mary once appeared here modest parish church that is open fish for crabs, or you can visit the shops, including all the essentials Heading inland, Blickling Hall, a National Opposite right: Great Walsingham. and subsequently, since the to visitors. A must during your visit shops on Staithe Street with not a you’ll ever require. to Holt has to be a trip on the chain store in sight. Wells is an If you are seeking a change in Trust property, boasts formal and informal North Norfolk: Middle-Ages, the village has gardens, shops and a cafe. The pretty Georgian become one of Europe’s most North Norfolk Railway. Also known unspoiled seaside destination, with lifestyle, why not explore the ‘the perfect place to market town of Holt is brimming over with popular places of pilgrimage. These as the Poppy Line, a steam train quiet pubs and restaurants just beauty of North Norfolk? Visit for

personality, as is the pretty village of Little shop, dine and take days, around almost every corner takes its passengers from Holt waiting to be discovered. Head the day, enjoy a weekend break or

Walsingham, conjoined with its neighbour, Great in the beautiful you’ll see the religious connection. station through some of North inland a little and visit Burnham even consider selling up and Walsingham, all of which nestle in the North countryside and ‘ Visit in mid-January and you can Norfolk’s most stunning Market. Often described as one of making that move to embark on a Norfolk countryside. nearby coastline. experience the Walsingham Abbey countryside, designated an Area of Norfolk’s loveliest villages, Burnham new chapter in your life story?

32 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 33 GRAND DAYS OUT REVISITED

Buttercross built in 1600 - so called because people perhaps still very much the heart of the old Minster from neighbouring towns would gather there to buy village, which can trace its history and heritage back WITNEY AND MINSTER LOVELL eggs and butter! Despite the growth of Witney the some 600 years. town still retains the charm associated with a typical Rows of the most beautiful Cotswold stone Experience the Cotswold dream, take time out, stay a while, Cotswold market town. buildings, many topped with thatched roofs, line the but promise yourself you’ll return again soon. The River Windrush, to which the town owes so main street. A sedate walk will lead visitors to the much, also flows through the nearby quintessential beautiful 14th century church of St. Kenelm; it is at English hamlet of Minster Lovell. Visit this little gem this point most visitors in search of the ruins of of a magical location, situated off the beaten track, Minster Lovell Hall turn back to look elsewhere. But here can’t be many middle-aged people with the opening of the, now dismantled, railway and you could almost be forgiven for thinking you hidden away from view, behind St.Kenelm, is the amoungst our readers who at one stage in line which once ran from Witney to Yarnton. had slipped back a few hundred years to a time most iconic and romantic location you could ever T their lives, haven’t been tucked up with a These days Witney is still a thriving market when life was a much simpler affair that ran at a stumble upon. It is also where the old ruins of Witney blanket to keep the winter chill at bay. town and when David Cameron was Prime Minister more sedate pace. Minster Lovell Hall are to be found, which date The small Oxfordshire town of Witney can boast he was MP for Witney, adding a somewhat celebrity The first sight to greet you, as you cross the primarily from the original house built for William its connection with this famous blanket going back status to the town. But, some might say, a more three-arched bridge that spans the Windrush, is the Lovell in the 1430s. You can expect to spend some almost 300 years. At one time there were five important aspect of Witney’s prosperity and status breath-taking beauty of the Old Swan. This jewel in time here, if only to wonder at the enormity and blanket factories in the town but, alas, the most lies with the river Windrush, upon whose banks Minster Lovell’s crown is equal only to Minster Mill, beauty of the structure that once stood overlooking famous and enduring blanket maker in Witney is no Witney evolved, as did the local brewing industry. which sits sedately on the banks of the Windrush - the peaceful river Windrush. Such an idyllic site as longer. The old mill chimney, which is a landmark In fact the town’s importance as a strategic location as you might expect an old mill to do! The Old you will ever lay your eyes on, perhaps you will of the area, is mostly the only part of the original for travellers is reflected in the notable number of Swan and Minster Mill have a distinct charm and make yourself a promise to return again very soon. mill which remains these days. A blue plaque old inns - some that still exist to this day. ambiance of a bygone period. The Old Swan is Article first published Bedfordshire County Life, issue 51, Winter edition, 2010 reminds tourists that the site was home to Witney A familiar sight in the Market Square, perhaps Blankets, a company founded in 1669 by the Early overlooked and taken for granted by the residents of PHOTO STORY - LEAD: Built in 1600, the Buttercross in the market square is inconic. ABOVE LEFT & RIGHT: The Autumnal oak partly family and its founder, Charles Early is credited Witney, but admired by tourists, is the famous obscures the 14th century church of St. Kenelm and a reminder of Witney’s association with its famous blanket. photos copyright: Alan Humphreys 2010

34 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 35 NATURE NOTES A VERY BRITISH TRADITION

Does it matter what it’s called? By Tim Sharrock I want to see a Clifden Nonpareil

HERE ARE CERTAIN SPECIES THAT ALMOST Camberwell Beauty butterfly in Britain. No luck so far. Two EVERYONE WANTS TO SEE IN THE WILD. moths have had a similar appeal, the intriguingly patterned T OF MAMMALS, THESE WILL ALMOST Death’s-head Hawk-moth (which squeaks if you touch it and has CERTAINLY INCLUDE AN AFRICAN ELEPHANT, A a skull-like mark on its thorax) and the intriguingly named TIGER AND A BLUE WHALE. NOT MUCH CHANCE Clifden Nonpareil. Both are large, very striking moths, and both OF DISCOVERING ANY OF THOSE INLAND IN EAST have still eluded me so far. The Clifton Nonpareil seems to be ANGLIA OR SOUTH-EAST ENGLAND! BUT WHAT CAN coming here in increasing numbers and may be becoming WE HOPE TO FIND HERE? established in south-eastern England. Interestingly, its peak arrivals here seem to coincide with larger than usual numbers of In the case of those mammals, it is their size or their another eastern species, the Camberwell Beauty butterfly. Could ferocious reputation that we find intriguing. With other groups, I get both of my lepidopteran ‘wanted species’ at the same time? it is not necessarily the organism itself, but it may be its name I could dream. But there is a move to deny me one pleasure. that is intriguing. For instance, Enchanter’s Nightshade is an The moth may have its name changed, to Blue Underwing, since insignificant little woodland plant, with small, inconspicuous it is in the same genus as Red Underwing, Rosy Underwing and white flowers, but what an interesting name it has. Why is it Crimson Underwing. If I find one, I want to find an intriguing associated with enchanters? And who are or were enchanters? Clifden Nonpareil, not a boring Blue Underwing! As an aside, it If you do not already know the plant, are you not now is an interesting coincidence that my most-desired butterfly and intrigued? Its scientific name is Circaea lutetiana, the generic my most-desired moth are both named after the place in Britain name referring to Circe the enchantress who put a spell on where they were first discovered, Clifden after the Cliveden Ulysses’ crew in Homer’s Odyssey. In modern witchcraft, it is estate in Berkshire and Camberwell in London. claimed to be effective in “binding, enchantment, hexing, Name changes go on all the time. When I started shape-shifting and transformation.” The second part of its birdwatching, Prunella modularis was known as Hedge Sparrow. vernacular name is a misnomer, since Enchanter’s Nightshade is It is, however, not a sparrow (which is in the genus Passer), so Christmas related to the willowherbs, not to Black Nightshade or Deadly its name was changed to the country name of Dunnock Nightshade. A pretty little plant in a woodland setting, it is best (meaning small brown bird), though some ornithologists to avoid introducing it deliberately or accidentally to your thought that it ought to be called Hedge Accentor, to match all garden. It is a pernicious and aggressive weed, for it spreads the closely related birds in the genus Prunella, such as Alpine ertain traditions that we associate with The turkey, which is synonymous with the very effectively by its tiny barbed seeds, which adhere to animal Accentor, Siberian Accentor, Radde’s Accentor and so on. the festive period have roots which date festive period today, beginning its reign of fur and to human clothing, and rhizomes, which survive Indeed, Hedge Accentor was its accepted British name long ago, C back hundreds of years, but it was dominance when it was introduced to the table underground when the above-ground leaves and stems die before even my time. during the 1800s when the celebrations we during the nineteenth-century. Of course, lunch down in winter. A few years ago, when the vernacular names of know and love today really began to take shape. wouldn’t have been complete without the In spring and early summer - or even, sometimes, on mild European birds were under review, one very eminent Christmas cracker. First invented by British winter days - you may spot not only swarms of dancing midges ornithologist vehemently defended the retention of the evocative The celebration of Christmas originated as a confectioner, Tom Smith, in 1848, these were and gnats, but also larger black flies, with long, dangling legs, name Andalusian Hemipode for Turnix sylvaticus, rather than the religious ceremony, but the Victorians turned the originally filled with sweets but replaced later in which do not dance randomly, but amusingly ‘bounce’ up and more mundane name Small Buttonquail, saying “I’ve never seen celebrations into one based around family and the the century with small gifts and the obligatory down as if suspended on elastic threads. These are the one and, when I do, I want it to be an Andalucian Hemipode, giving of home-made gifts became a thoughtful and paper hat. Mince pies, also a favourite, date back to intriguingly named St Mark’s Flies, so named since they were not a Small Buttonquail.” One of his colleagues pointed out to integral part of the period. Tudor times, where the pies included real thought to appear most often around 25th April, St Mark’s Day. him, however, that he HAD seen the species, in North Africa, The giving of Christmas cards was also mincemeat from birds, such as chicken and pigeon. In fact, the ones bouncing up and down are all males, which where is had always been known as a buttonquail. introduced during the Victorian period. In 1843, One of the most precious festive traditions is emerge a little earlier than the females, and the strange bouncy The arguments over vernacular names will doubtless Henry Cole commissioned an artist to design a the holiday awarded for Christmas Day and Boxing flight is a display which aims to attract the females. Seldom continue. Should they attempt to reflect an organism’s affinities? card, which depicted a group of people having Day, allowing people to celebrate the festive season bothersome to Human Beings, these flies are doubly beneficial, Should we call Turdus merula the Black Thrush rather than the dinner, with a Christmas message printed across with their loved ones. This tradition was started by their larvae feeding on soil detritus and the adults feeding on Blackbird and Sylvia atricapilla the Black-capped Warbler rather the bottom. These were initially quite expensive the Victorians, who experienced great wealth nectar, so being useful pollinators. than the Blackcap? Kestrel Falcon and Merlin Falcon? Or should and only accessible to the wealthy but, as demand during the nineteenth-century, thanks to the Ever since my schooldays, I have dreamed of finding a we stick with the familiar, more-traditional names? Discuss! grew, the price fell. In 1880 alone, more than 11.5 introduction of new factories and industries which million cards were sold in Britain! allowed the middle classes to take the two days as AUTUMN - WILDLIFE PUZZLE: Question: What do these organisms all have in common: a dainty white butterfly; a delicate white spring woodland flower; The signing of carols was considered a highly holiday from work. a white-rumped wading bird a few of which nest in Scotland; a small bright green-and-yellow-and-white summer migrant with a trilling song; and a black-and-white-and- yellow highly patterned moth now scarce or absent from south-eastern England and East Anglia? enjoyable form of entertainment marking the

beginning of the festive season. Carols such as ‘Silent Answers.

Wood (they are Wood White, Wood Anemone, Wood Sandpiper, Wood Warbler and Wood Tiger Wood and Warbler Wood Sandpiper, Wood Anemone, Wood White, Wood are (they Wood Night’ and ‘The Holly and the Ivy’ being very popular. Ed.

36 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 37 PROPERTY FLAGBOARD Town & Country Homes

ALL INCLUSIVE AND AFFORDABLE HAWTHORNS NORTHAMPTON

Are you looking for the retirement of your dreams? Something that’s all-inclusive and affordable, that you can also try out first? Then the Hawthorns in Northampton is on your short list.

retirement community include a daily programme of events and activities to keep you busy and involved. An air-conditioned dining room, cinema room, Spa therapy and treatment room, hair salon with nail bar, clubhouse and bar, library, guest suite and beautifully maintained landscaped gardens; a sector-leading Well-being Programme keeps you healthier and fitter, with exercise classes and nutrition specific dining options. You’ll be looked after in a safe and secure environment by the experts in rental retirement; established in the UK for 25 years, The Hawthorns unique senior lifestyle has been honed over many years by resident preference. Another plus is that you can try it first - not so easy if you buy a retirement property. With just 30 days’ notice, if it’s not to advertise telephone 01462 81 94 96 [email protected] The Hawthorns provides a unique offering in senior for you then you have choice and flexibility; there’s even a living, with a genuinely all-inclusive package and one-month taster stay, so there’s nothing to lose. For those no hidden extras. Your weekly rental covers keen to embrace their new life but struggling to sell their everything, and with just one month’s notice there house, The Hawthorns can signpost you to a reputable is no long-term tie-in; there are no service charges national agency that can buy your property outright, or exit charges, and all heating and hot water bills enabling you to turn your dreams in to reality, right now. An affordable retirement, that’s all-inclusive, and council tax are covered. There’s no housekeeping, cooking, washing up, property or and you’re all included! garden maintenance - it’s all done for you, including the restaurant quality dining three times a day, free coffee and refreshments in the all-day bistro!

A wide range of studio, 1 or 2 bedroomed apartments means there’s an option within everyone’s reach, with luxury you can afford. The amenities you’d expect of a quality

FOR MORE INFORMATION SEARCH ‘Hawthorns Retire’ online or on Facebook, or call 01604 684920 to book your personal tour or talk to us about your retirement options. COUNTY LIFE COUNTY

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

A TRIO OF NEW DEVELOPMENTS FOR CALA HOMES

Five-star housebuilder CALA Homes is encouraging house hunters to visit its three new developments across Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire to see the high standard and quality specification on offer.

office, local convenience shops and village hall. It was also previously voted the most popular commuter town in Bedfordshire, with direct services to London St Pancras in around 40 minutes and Cambridge in under 50 minutes. CALA has also opened the doors of two new showhomes as part of its collection at St Neots’ newest destination, Wintringham, giving house buyers a first glimpse of the lifestyle on offer within this vibrant new community. CALA at Wintringham offers a collection of 178 homes, including contemporary one bedroom apartments priced from £189,950 and four bedroom family homes from £539,950, which are among the first homes to be released for sale. The third of CALA’s new developments is to advertise telephone 01462 81 94 96 [email protected] Café Fields in Puckeridge. Café Fields Renowned for selecting premium locations, CALA’s comprises of 56 high quality homes in a superb location new developments are CALA at Wintringham in within this popular East Hertfordshire village. CALA has St Neots, Café Fields in Puckeridge and recently launched two showhomes at Café Fields, including the four bedroom detached Benington, which showcases Arlesey Grange in Arlesey. Between them, the how space is maximised over three floors, emulating a style developments comprise a collection of one and two of living reminiscent of London and the Continent with its bedroom apartments all the way up to five bedroom lower ground, upper ground and first floor layout. family homes, ideal for a variety of purchasers from first-time buyers to large families.

Tucked away in the rural bliss on Bedfordshire and sitting close to the Hertfordshire border, Arlesey Grange is a stunning collection of semi-detached and detached homes. The peaceful town of Arlesey has a couple of pubs, a post

For further information on all of CALA’s developments in the North Home Counties region and the incentives on offer to help you buy your new home, please visit: www.cala.co.uk/homes-for-sale/north-home-counties COUNTY LIFE COUNTY

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FIND YOUR DREAM HOME WITH LOVELL HOMES’ SCHEMES DESIGNED TO HELP YOU MOVE

House buyers in Norfolk and Suffolk who are keen on moving house, but have worries about selling their own property, can move into their dream home with the help of Lovell Homes.

75% mortgage and a 20% equity loan, which is interest-free for the first five years*. Lovell Homes’ Key Workers scheme* provides eligible individuals with a £500 discount for every £25,000 spent alongside free flooring up to the value of £3000, making the home moving process that little bit easier for vital workers. Heath Farm is a beautifully crafted collection of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes and bungalows in the delightful market town of Holt, surrounded by acres of countryside and miles of sandy beaches. Situated in the historic town of Fakenham, Wensum Grange is a desirable selection of three and four-bedroom homes, with a perfect mix of charming marketplace streets and endless The leading housebuilder can assist buyers with a countryside on residents’ doorsteps. variety of different home moving schemes, all St Mary’s View is a stunning range of three, four and to advertise telephone 01462 81 94 96 [email protected] available at its Heath Farm, Wensum Grange and five-bedroom homes and bungalows. Close to the heart of St Mary’s View developments. the village of Gislingham, the development boasts Lovell Homes’ Part Exchange scheme* picturesque rural surroundings and excellent transport links. Homebuyers can now save up to £15,000 on all Lovell guarantees a genuine cash buyer, meaning homes, with new rules stating that there will be no Stamp purchasers can enjoy a stress-and-hassle-free buying Duty* to pay on properties up to the value of £500,000 on experience, eliminating the need to pay estate agent all sales legally completing before 31st March 2021. fees and avoiding the uncertainty associated with a Lovell Homes also has a select number of homes across traditional house buying chain. its developments that are available to move into before Christmas. The Helping Hands scheme works as an assisted move, where buyers can avoid paying expensive estate agents’ fees*. Lovell properties can also be purchased with just a 5% deposit using the Government-backed Help to Buy: Equity Loan scheme. The remaining amount is made up from a

For further information on the homes available at Lovell Homes’ developments and enquires about the home moving schemes, visit www.lovell.co.uk *T&Cs apply. COUNTY LIFE COUNTY

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

HAYFIELD UNVEILS ITS MOST LUXURIOUS THREE-BEDROOM SHOW HOME IN BEDFORDSHIRE VILLAGE OF SILSOE

HAYFIELD HAS UNVEILED A HIGHLY ASPIRATIONAL THREE-BEDROOM HATTON SHOW HOME AT ITS LARGEST DEVELOPMENT – HAYFIELD PLACE IN THE BEDFORDSHIRE VILLAGE OF SILSOE.

sophisticated colour palette can be used in smaller family homes.” The 14-acre Hayfield Place scheme is located off Silsoe High Street, close to English Heritage’s magnificent Grade I listed Wrest Park. Featuring 105 exceptional two, three, four and five-bedroom bungalows and family homes, the prices for the current release start from £330,000. Hayfield Place has been designed to reflect architectural styles from the sought-after historic village of Silsoe, weaving in local materials and detailing. The new homes are being constructed in red and buff brick and render with a luxurious specification that is unmatched in the area. Specification features The London townhouse inspired interiors have vary dependent on the house design, been designed to illustrate how luxurious, including underfloor heating, designer Laufen bathrooms, to advertise telephone 01462 81 94 96 [email protected] Minoli ceramic tiles, Hammonds fitted wardrobes, Farrow & bespoke-made pieces can make a new home as Ball paint, heritage bronze door furniture and bi-fold doors. Pinterest-worthy as a boutique hotel. The bespoke kitchens designed by Manor Interiors include a range of integrated Bosch appliances, such as multifunctional The interior is the brainchild of Gemma Schofield, ovens, an induction hob, dishwasher and an instant hot tap. Director of Lifestyle Interiors. She comments: “The Hatton provides beautiful internal space and an integral garage. The kitchen/diner incorporates well thought-out features such as ceiling-high cupboards for a sleek look and additional storage, as well as a centre island for food preparation, which doubles up as a breakfast bar. Sumptuous blue velvet chairs and statement lighting create a stunning and inviting setting to enjoy every mealtime. “The living room is the perfect place to entertain, with double doors leading out onto the enclosed garden. The styling has been inspired by a laid-back members’ lounge with lots of texture, art deco inspired furniture and shades of grey, taupe and smoky navy. “The upstairs of the Hatton has a natural wow factor, with three large bedrooms and hotel-style bathrooms. The first bedroom features a superking bed with bespoke wall panelling, complemented by taupe, grey and white fabrics and furniture. A similar colour palette is used in bedroom two, where a beautiful oversized headboard takes centre stage. To show how versatile bedroom three could be, we have dressed two single beds with feminine pastel shades, but also included a large dresser, which could be alternated for a MORE INFORMATION: home office set up. Hayfield Place is open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm. “This is the most luxurious three-bedroom show home I For further information on the scheme, please telephone 0800 048 4865 or email: [email protected] have seen and I’m so proud we’ve had the opportunity to or visit www.hayfieldhomes.co.uk illustrate how strong styling, bespoke furniture and a highly COUNTY LIFE COUNTY

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

CHOOSE A NEW CHAPTER WITH STOREY

HOMEBUYERS IN BEDFORDSHIRE AND HERTFORDSHIRE LOOKING FOR A FRESH START WITH A BRAND NEW HOME SHOULD CONSIDER ONE OF STOREY HOMES’ EXCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE REGION.

Contrastingly, the three and five bedroom townhouses at The Harpurs at De Montfort Place in Bedford are positioned in the heart of the thriving town of Bedford in a sought after Conservation Area, with all the necessary amenities within walking distance. Better still, residents can still enjoy the open space they need with access to communal gardens, tennis courts and a children’s play area. Finally, Storey Homes has a unique selection of one and two bedroom new and sensitively converted apartments and two, three and four bedroom houses for sale at The Place in Designed with flexibility in mind, the range of Kempston near Bedford. This exclusive development in a convenient location occupies the grounds of a former

to advertise telephone 01462 81 94 96 [email protected] two, three, four and five bedroom homes offers buyers plenty of scope for accommodating the 17th Century mansion from which it takes its name. ‘new normal’ way of life. Each location has been handpicked by Storey for its appeal both in terms of accessibility to amenities and the immediate surrounds.

Birch Meadows in the popular village of Barkway near Royston has two homes for sale, the four bedroom Beech and the five bedroom Sycamore. Both properties come with a separate study ready made for anyone who needs to work from home, whilst the development is located on the edge of glorious countryside perfect for when it’s time to get outside and enjoy some fresh air.

Heather Holl, Sales and Marketing Director for Storey Homes said, “Our current portfolio of homes has something for anyone looking to start a new chapter following the pandemic, from stylish townhouses to family home in the country and everything in between. “We are proud to offer homes that really work for how we need to live today, in handpicked locations and using bespoke designs that have been individually tailored to the setting.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit www.storey-homes.co.uk or call 01908 067040 to make an appointment. COUNTY LIFE COUNTY

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

Worrying Heights by Jess Perrin

tanding alone at the firm grip. They also found to refill them with Watney’s Red Barrel bitter. Short, “We ought to tell that big idiot to sling his hook,” foot of Steep Hill, it that Gertie’s momentum at stocky and bald, Bob was wearing wire-rimmed Terry said, clenching a bony fist, and thrusting back was as though the turns was beyond that glasses, a grey waistcoat and a white shirt rolled up to his narrow shoulders. shame had which a slight youth’s body his elbows, presenting little change to what he wore in “Too true,” Dave agreed, aping his friend and distancedS Hilden village hall could correct. the week as an accountant in the practice of Scrutiny becoming even more pale. “Just when that Cathy is on from the picturesque stone The dance ended and and Partners. her own, he has to upset things!” village above. Locals couples returned to their “Amy must have got it wrong,” Terry said, as the The band played on. Encouraged by lack of descending on foot would seats. On stage at the far end two youths stood waiting. intervention, the swarthy young man moved hand-in- look down on its corrugated of the hall, the Ravens, a “How do you mean?” Dave asked. paw with his dog to the middle of the dance floor, metal roof and creosoted four-piece band, were “Surely not Friesian Farm,” Terry replied. “When soon clearing the entire space of dancers. Noticing shiplap walls, seeing it as the preparing for the next dance. the east wind blows across that place this time of year, their absence - and unusual replacement - the band place where they had cast The prim woman pianist sat the village closes its windows.” came to an inharmonious stop. their vote, had sat on a poised while her pointy- “The girl didn’t deny it,” Dave said. With no musical accompaniment, the man let go parish committee, or had bearded violinist husband “Maybe she’s a looker, not a talke,” Terry of his dog, which, having caught sight of a seated experienced the rectitude of uttered something into her suggested. woman, started skidding and sliding on the parquet a women’s group’s monthly ear. Out front, a thin, “Yeah. She virtually ignored us,” Dave added. floor until its frantic efforts finally led it towards her. meeting. On Saturday dance waistcoated man with “Could be Amy only said Friesian Farm to put us off.” Cathy stood up as the madly excited animal slid to a nights, when aided by the straggly grey hair stood Unnoticed by everyone, a tall, swarthy, powerfully halt at her feet, wagging its tail furiously, its hind Dutch courage of a drink or tasting a saxophone. By his built young man with long, jet-black wavy hair quarters rapidly swinging from side to side. Those two, some saw the old hall side, his tiny wife wielded a stepped into the entrance lobby. He was accompanied standing nearby stepped smartly to one side as small, as a plush ballroom of clarinet. by a black and white collie dog, and an unpleasant mud-coloured pellets spotted the floor. opportunity, where close The two boys promptly smell. The young man wore mud-encased Wellington “Shep! Out, you bad dog!” Cathy said, pointing to encounters ended at got up to replenish their boots, a mud-splattered black donkey jacket, and the exit. The dog resorted to instant cowed midnight or before, where glasses at the bar, going the similarly soiled baggy brown corduroy trousers. The submission and turned away. courtships started, and long long way round to get a dog, caked in mud up to its belly, jumped up and “And out with you, Heath! You drunken muck married lives would claim close look at the girl with the down, pawing its master, excited by the new spreader of a husband!” she added. their origin. long legs. surroundings. Heath mimicked his dog and made for the door. On such a late summer “Hello boys,” Gertie said At the other end of the hall, the straggly-haired Terry and Dave took a few tentative steps across night during the early 1960s, a pretty mini-skirted girl as the youths came close. Amy offered a dismissive saxophonist announced a modern waltz. Couples the floor to needlessly point the already departing with long legs sat with her back against the smile. The girl, clearly pleased with the effect she was moved on to the floor. Those nearest the lobby, now Heath towards the exit. Cathy, with a furious look and wainscotted wall, watching the dancers as they shuf- having on the youths, faked embarrassment by having caught sight of the man and his dog, taking long strides, followed her man. The dog was fled and skipped to a Mayfair quickstep. Sitting smiling at the floor. exchanged looks of surprise. The music started up to already scratching at the exit. against the wall opposite, two youths stole glimpses of “Hello ladies,” Terry said; his gaze darting towards the tune of ‘Charmaine’. As usual, Gertie and Amy had As the door slammed behind the departing couple the girl as gaps appeared between the movers. and from the girl. Dave allowed himself a proper stare. been first up, leaving the girl sitting on her own. The and their dog, a momentary silence fell over the hall, “Wow! See her!” said Dave Wallace, a short, thin “This is Cathy,” Amy said. “She’s new to the dancers began moving round the floor. The two followed by the lively hum of chatter over what had youth with a flat-top haircut and pale complexion. He village. Her dad’s just bought Friesian Farm, up there muddy visitors stepped forward, the man grabbing the just been witnessed. Anxious that the Ravens should looked smart in his light brown suite, white shirt, on Vinegar Hill.” front legs of his dog and encouraging it to partner him strike up once more, two practically-minded women pencil mustard pencil tie and thick-heeled brown “Well, hello there,” Dave said, suppressing a frown on its hind legs. Several couples stopped dancing and volunteered to use a bucket, mop and drying cloths to leather brogues. at the mention of the girl’s new abode. went back to their seats. Others appeared to accept remove the visitors’ scattered spoils. “Not seen her before,” said Terry Cross, Dave’s The girl, still smiling, nodded but did not look the newcomer’s antics as some sort of entertainment. Relieved that Cathy’s intervention had prevented a slightly taller but no more robust best friend, whose up. “Where on earth did he come from?” Gertie muddy conflict of almost certain unfavourable similarly attired body and levelled head were moving “Good turnout tonight,” Terry added. wondered, as the two women waltzed close to the outcome, the two boys made their way back to the from side to side like that of a sand dancer, trying to “It makes for a nice atmosphere,” Gertie replied. performing intruders. bar. For the benefit of anyone looking, each youth make the most of each sighting of the girl. “Yes, but we don’t want it too crowded,” Amy cut “Must be Friesian Farm,” Amy replied, screwing began casually finger-brushing the lapels of his Among the cramped, chattering row of young, in, adding, “And you boys better get your drinks up her nose. spotless suit, as though a battle had just been fought old, married and single who sat around the walls of before the dance starts, or you’ll be spilling it all over “Oh my god!” Gertie exclaimed. and won without so much as drawing breath. the long, narrow hall, the girl looked out of place the floor!” The two youths, leaning against the makeshift bar, “Good job we didn’t ask that Cathy for a dance,” sandwiched between widows Amy Smith and Gertie Used to Amy’s plain speaking, the boy’s grinned had been trying to decide who should be first to ask Dave said. Myers. Amy, tall and heavily built, always danced the and made their way to the bar. Cathy for a dance, seeing that she was now on her ‘Yeah. She was too tall for me,” Terry replied. man’s steps, partnered by the shorter, rotund Gertie. “Same again, Bob,” Terry said. own. “And me,” Dave said, looking up at his friend. The boys would often encounter the two women “You boys must have hollow legs,” retorted 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 during progressive dances, and were putty in Amy’s barman Bob Wallace, taking their glasses and starting 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

48 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk www.countylifemagazines.co.uk County Life 49 THE LAST WORD A PICTURE OF England

The Butcher’s Bike

ho remembers the butcher’s bike? It is These bikes didn’t enjoy a pampered life and said that most things in life go full were treated with little respect. But, for those who W circle. This adage is most prevalant in valued their Saturday job, they provided the our post-lock down society where home delivery opportunity to earn a small wage - and in all has never been so popular, or so widely utiliesed. weathers too! I was too young to get gainful The old bicycles of yesteryear were once a employment as a butcher’s boy and missed out on familiar sight along our bustling high streets. Parked the rewards of a Saturday wage to complement my up outside their owner’s shop, doubling up as an pocket money. advertisement for the home delivery service Occasionally you can still see an old butcher’s Whether you’re after the perfect piece for an exclusive event, the holiday of a lifetime or simply because you provided to much-valued customers, these bicycles, bike - as I did - resting in retirement, but still deserve a treat, Elouise Lingerie has a stunning collection that is hard to match. The Cambridgeshire-based and the young delivery girls and boys who rode promoting the message that a good old-fashioned designer boutique stocks sophisticated lingerie from international brands, along with glamorous swimwear, them, had a tough life delivering the goods stacked service is still offered from the business whose name luxury nightwear and fine hosiery - everything you need to feel extra special. Gift-wrapping available. high in the large basket which straddled the front is signwritten beneath the crossbar. wheel.

50 County Life www.countylifemagazines.co.uk