Cotswold Homes Autumn Edition 2013

Cotswold Homes Cotswold-Homes.com The Property & Lifestyle Magazine for the North Cotswolds

AUTUMN Edition 2013

Complimentary Copy

HOT PROPERTY

Raymond Blanc’S L’ÉCOLE DE CUISINE

Expert Advice, Beautiful Homes

Sharpening our skills at Le Manoir

EXTRAORDINARY

EQUESTRIAN

RHINO

Italian Sensation Vittoria Panizzon on her Olympic Steed

ARRIVING!

Cotswold Wildlife Park’s Baby Rhino

PRIVILEGE CARD OFFERS Support local trade and save money!

WIN TICKETS

Blenheim Horse Trials, Cotswold Wildlife Park & More

FATHER BROWN

IS BACK IN TOWN

TIME TRAVELLING IN THE COTSWOLDS Far-Out Future, Roman Past

Catching up with the BBC

LORD OF THE RING

Longborough Opera’s Wagnerian Conductor Anthony Negus

Cotswold Homes Magazine CONTENTS Competition Page Win tickets to great venues and events!

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Father Brown is Back in Town We catch up with Mark Williams and the BBC on the return of Father Brown

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Life in the Roman Cotswolds What was life like in Corinium?

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On the Horizon How might the Cotswolds be shaped by future technologies?

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Diary of an Equestrian Lady Our equine correspondent meets with Italian sensation Vittoria Panizzon

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Adam Henson on Moreton Show Countryfile presenter reflects on a well-loved country show

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Ask the Experts Our team of correspondents answer your property and financial questions

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Someone to Watch Over Me The Theatre Chipping Norton’s Bold New Production

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Celebrating Jane Austen & CS Lewis Visit some of the Cotswolds’ lesser known literature festivals …

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Lord of the Ring Visiting Longborough Opera Conductor Antony Negus …

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L’école du Cuisine We get schooled in the art of cooking by Monsieur Raymond Blanc’s protégés

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A Rhino Arrival 108 We pay a visit to a three-day-old white rhino

Hot Property 44 Presenting a range of the finest properties on the Cotswold market

Events 110 Our pick of local events over the coming autumn Privilege Card Offers Shop Local this Autumn and save money

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Directory of Independent Cotswold Businesses Support Local Trade

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Editor’s WELCOME After the damp travesty of last year’s summer, we’ve certainly enjoyed a scorcher in 2013…A little too hot, some might say, so it’s with some relief we slip into the mellow delights of another Cotswold autumn.

In this season’s issue, Raymond Blanc makes good on his previous promise to school us in the culinary arts, Mark Williams swings into town with the BBC in tow and the Olympian Italian sensation Vittoria Panizzon has a few words to say about her exemplary career. We also managed to track down Wagnerian conductor Anthony Negus bang in the middle of Longborough’s epic Ring Cycle.

Meanwhile the editorial team looks back on the Roman Cotswolds of two thousand years ago and then to the future, wondering how emerging technologies may shape our local lifestyles and landscape. Paying a visit to the Cotswold Wildlife Park, we photograph a newly born baby rhino and speak to The Theatre Chipping Norton’s latest director Caroline Leslie on staging a Lebanese hostage crisis in the heart of a rural theatre…

It all ends with another stunning selection of Privilege Card offers. Pick up your free card and claim these offers today!

Matt Dicks, Editor, Cotswold Homes Magazine Cotswold Homes Magazine Our next issue, Winter 2013, will bring you more upcoming events, special offers and articles designed to showcase the very best of the area – helping you to make the best out of life in this beautiful part of the world. If you know any interesting events, interesting people to talk to or exciting places to visit, please share your story with us by getting in touch with the editorial team.

We will be distributing the Winter Edition from the beginning of November 2013.

For independent local businesses, membership of the Cotswold Homes Directory gives exclusive access to discounted advertising rates and the Privilege Card scheme.

To speak to a member of our team, telephone 01608 653899 or email: Marketing and Sales Collette Fairweather: collette@cotswold-homes.com Editor’s Desk Matt Dicks: matt@cotswold-homes.com Property Karen Harrison: Karen@harrisonjameshardie.co.uk Administration Riyad Cajee: riyad@cotswold-homes.com Design team: www.wearealias.com

Cotswold-Homes.com The Property & Lifestyle Magazine for the North Cotswolds www.cotswold-homes.com

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Cotswold Homes Competition

Cotswold Homes Magazine Autumn Giveaway As Autumn approaches, we’ve managed to rustle up another batch of exceptional prizes for our readers – and entering our draws couldn’t be easier.

WIN 2 X FAMILY PASSES TO THE COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK AND GARDENS

Win two pairs of family tickets to this favourite family destination and see the newly arrived baby rhino for yourself! To enter, simply email admin@cotswold-homes.com with ‘RHINO’ in the subject line, remembering to include your contact details in case you win! Alternatively, you can enter by messaging us on www.facebook. com/cotswoldhomespage.

The park is open all year round (25th December excepted). Opening hours: April to October 10am-6pm (last admission 4.30pm) / November to March 10am-5pm (last admission 3.30pm). Visit www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk for directions and further details.

Entries must be received by Monday 16th September

WIN 3 X PAIRS OF ADULT PASSES TO BLENHEIM HORSE TRIALS (with comp. parking) for SUNDAY 15th SEPTEMBER Win three pairs of adults passes to this exclusive equestrian event, situated in the glorious grounds of Blenheim Palace. With these passes visitors will be able to access the event site, see the CIC 8 and 9 year old horse go cross country and watch the BE100 Trizone Eventer Challenge Competition. A wide range of trade stands, children’s attractions, a learning zone and a display of classic and sports care plus much more make this one of the best events in the Cotswold calendar.

To enter, simply email admin@cotswold-homes. com with ‘HORSE TRIALS’ in the subject field, remembering to include your contact details in case you win. Alternatively, you can enter by visiting www.facebook.com/cotswoldhomespage and messaging us.

Tickets are not exchangeable for tickets for any day or any other type of tickets, nor can they be exchanged for cash. Please visit www.blenheimhorse.co.uk for directions and further details.

Entries for this competition must be received by Tuesday 27th August like us on facebook for more chances to win! www.facebook.com/cotswoldhomespage 4

Cotswold Homes Magazine

Cotswold Homes Competition

Cotswold Homes Magazine Autumn Giveaway SPECIAL READER OFFER now available for RAYMOND BLANC’S LE MANOIR AUX QUAT’SAISONS

WIN 2 X FREE FAMILY PASSES TO ADAM HENSON’S COTSWOLD FARM PARK As a Cotswold Homes exclusive, we have two pairs of family tickets to Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park to give away. To enter, simply email admin@cotswold-homes. com with ‘FARM PARK’ in the subject line.

Alternatively, you can enter by messaging us on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/ cotswoldhomespage. For directions and more information, please visit www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk Entries must be received by Monday 16th September

Terms & Conditions

Entry to the competition is open to all except the employees (and their families) of Cotswold Homes or Harrison & Hardie. Winners will be drawn at random and notified via Facebook, by e-mail or by phone and may be posted on our website. No alternative prize or cash substitute is available for any of the prizes. In the event of a winner being unable to accept their prize then another winner will be drawn.

This giveaway is open to residents of the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland aged 18 years or over, except employees of Cotswold Homes Magazine, their families, agents or anyone else professionally associated with the giveaway.

It is a condition of entry that all rules are accepted as final and that the competitor agrees to abide by these rules.The decision of the judges is

Operated by French culinary master Raymond Blanc, this 32-room country hotel nestled in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Great Milton is the ultimate in gastronomic hideaways. Like a more perfect version of the ideal country manor, Le Manoir is somewhere you’ll never want to leave. Boasting a two-Michelin-starred restaurant and some of the most heavenly rooms and suites in the UK, a stay here is certainly an experience to remember. (Booking essential) Cotswold Homes readers can experience Le Manoir for themselves, enjoy Raymond Blanc's 5-course lunch with half a bottle of selected wine per person and coffee and petits fours. Priced at £99.00 per person, this Cotswold Homes reader lunch is available Monday to Fridays until the end of November 2013, subject to availability. Visit www.manoir.com for directions and further details. final and no correspondence will be entered into.

Entries must be submitted via the Facebook ‘Like’ system or emailed to admin@cotswold-homes.com (or as specified in entry terms of a specific prize) and entry is restricted to one per person. Late, illegible, incomplete, defaced or corrupt entries or entries sent through agencies and third parties will not be accepted. No responsibility can be held for lost entries and proof of dispatch will not be accepted as proof of receipt.The winner will be drawn at random from all entries received by the closing date and notified via Facebook message or contact details supplied.

The winner will be contacted within seven days of the closing date of the prize draw. Should the Promoter be unable to contact the winner or should the winner be unable to accept the prize, the Promoter

reserves the right to award the prize to an alternative winner, drawn in accordance with these terms and conditions.

The prize is described as available on the date of publication and all prizes are subject to the terms and conditions of the supplier.The prizes do not include travel insurance, food and drink, personal expenditure, or incidental costs, other than where mentioned. All elements of the prize are non transferable and there are no cash alternatives.The winner may be required to take part in publicity. Events may occur that render the prize draw itself or the awarding of the prize impossible due to reasons beyond the control of the Promoter and accordingly the Promoter may at its absolute discretion vary or amend the promotion and the entrant agrees that no liability shall attach to the Promoter as a result thereof.

like us on facebook for more chances to win! www.facebook.com/cotswoldhomespage www.cotswold-homes.com

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NEWITE WEBS

FATHER BROWN

Father Brown — is Back in Town —

Having proven a hit with daytime audiences, Mark Williams’ soul saving, sleuthing Catholic priest is back in the Cotswolds for a second BBC series. We caught up with Mark and crew at Chastleton House…

Witches’ curses, flying arrows and angry young socialists…Mark Williams’ mild-mannered priest certainly has his hands full at Pryde House, the ancestral home of the formerly illustrious Prydes.

Except, of course, there is no Pryde House. What you’ll see on screen when Episode 4 airs is a cunning blend of Berkeley Castle and Chastleton House.The benefit of shooting in the Cotswolds is that there are just so many stately piles to choose from.

Setting the televised adventures of a rural priest here in the Cotswolds was a smart move in more ways than one. As the former producer Ceri Meyrick predicted in our first series piece, international audiences have lapped up Father Brown, beguiled by authentic country landscapes and fifties period charm. It’s done exceptionally well at home, too, recouping a significant audience share for BBC1 – part of a scheduling that achieved ten whole percentage points over the preceding year, according to the Guardian.

It’s a big success for BBC Birmingham, who besides Father Brown are responsible for the long-running Doctors and several series of the much praised Land Girls. In the world of television, however, there’s not much time for backslapping – there’s too much work to be done. We’ve been promised chats with Mark Williams,Tom Chambers (the former Strictly Come Dancing winner, now playing new character Inspector Sullivan) and even the episode’s scriptwriter, Jude Tindall…that’s if we can grab a precious few moments between takes!

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Tom Chambers

(Inspector Sullivan) Hello Tom.What can you tell us about your character, who is new to series 2?

Well, he’s unlike Inspector Valentine, who was quite rough and ready. [Sullivan]’s well read, a gadget man, up to speed with science and forensics – he goes in with reason and rationality as the primary tools of his enquiring mind, as it were.

The sparring with Father Brown becomes, well, not quite Starsky and Hutch [laughs] but there is a real sense of chemistry there…Father Brown is constantly outdoing him and Sullivan finds that very irritating. He’s constantly on the back foot, being put in his place by the very clever and decisive Father Brown.

So Brown almost antagonizes your character?

I think they find a common ground, but they are constantly at loggerheads because he doesn’t want Brown’s interference. Sullivan’s really out for promotion – his grandfather and father were both in the police. He’s a city boy who has been sent out to these rural parts and is only looking to go in, do a brilliant job, and be promoted back out into the heart of the city, so he finds all these country folk quite hard to wrap his head around. I think he’s quite flummoxed by them all, especially by their rural ways and traditions. He just wants to solve the cases and be the hero.

“The sparring with Father Brown becomes, well, not quite Starsky and Hutch [laughs] but there is a real sense of chemistry there…”

FATHER BROWN

Does Inspector Valentine [Hugo Speer] appear in this season at all?

He does, but only in the first episode. At the end of that, he’s promoted over to the city and passes the relay baton over to my character.

At lot of viewers will undoubtedly recognise you as the winner of Strictly Come Dancing. Have you kept up with your dancing?

I won’t be doing any Latin or ballroom dancing during Father Brown, unless they have an afternoon tea party and Sullivan suddenly whips off his velcro trousers to reveal his Latin outfit…but I have just done 2 years – that’s 408 performances – of Top Hat, so I have done almost nothing but dancing since Strictly in many ways.

So this is very nice, a warmly received change from doing lots of theatre…The Fred Astaire project I did almost killed me, it really, really was physically exhausting doing eight shows a week, six days a week, two performances on a Thursday and a Saturday.

So it’s a pleasure to assume a less physical role this time?

Oh, yes. I’m very grateful for some television work now! And it’s really a pleasure to spend time in this part of the country, to be in the Cotswolds, a place I’ve never visited before. Everywhere you look you feel as though you’re in a novel, or going

Well I get most of my ideas from the Daily Mail Online actually [laughs] and The Sun newspaper! Really it depends – because Father Brown is a whodunnit, you really have to start your thinking with ‘Who is the murderer?

back in time. And doing the 1950s, it’s such fun to revisit, because you really do feel like its time travel.

Being able to go into these amazing properties and building that we’re filming in…it’s a real privilege, being a fly on the wall.

Scriptwriter Jude Tindall

(Episode 4, The Pride of the Prydes) Hi Jude. Is this your first script for Father Brown?

What’s your take on Chastleton House? That hasn’t changed much since Jacobean times…

It’s almost quite eerie. When you’re young and you’re having history lessons it has the air of fiction, its almost like made-up stories. It’s when you get older start to appreciate it…You can really think of all the situations and characters and histories behind those doors. Here you can see the standing of time, and it is incredible. [In] America you can have 100 year anniversaries and think that that’s a long time.

1987 might seem like a while ago, even, but how about the 1300s? How about that 15th century pub around the corner?

Thank you,Tom Chambers!

No, it’s my second. I was on series 1 as well, and I’ve done another for this series so this is the second of three.

Which episode did you write for the first series?

Bride of Christ. It was about nuns and was filmed in Princethorpe College!

What’s the scriptwriter’s process for Father Brown? How long is the turnaround?

This episode was commissioned in January, so roughly around five months, I think.You pitch first then do a scene-by-scene breakthrough and then www.cotswold-homes.com

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FATHER BROWN

“We’ve got great characters, a fantastic supporting cast. Sorcha Cusack has made a brilliant character out of Mrs McCarthy, who is desperately unlikeable in many ways but you just can’t help but think she’s brilliant [laughs]. Nancy [Carroll] is outstanding as Lady Felicia.”

you do six or seven drafts before you end up with the finished script. So it takes anywhere between 12-16 weeks, depending on how it goes. So it is quite a long process!

Do you have full authorship of the script, or do the producers give you some storyline concept or idea to write around?

Well the writers are asked to pitch ideas for the series, just a few pages of ideas and characters and if get approval, they get the commission. So all the stories are ours, fully original!

We read your script and enjoyed it very much – especially the witchy opening scene set in 1448...

Aha, the teaser. We have to have a teaser. The only reason I had that particular scene is I’d written the whole script but hadn’t done a teaser, so I just kind of whacked it in at the end! But they seemed really pleased with it. We’re allowed to have fun with the teasers.

It’s a notoriously silly thing to ask a writer, but where do you get your ideas from?

Well I get most of my ideas from the Daily Mail Online actually [laughs] and The Sun newspaper!

Really it depends – because Father Brown is a whodunnit, you really have to start your thinking with ‘Who is the murderer? And why have they [murdered]?’ and then you go from there.You have to be aware of locations – they want to take full advantage of all these wonderful houses and the beautiful countryside.

We also try to use themes, you know, because

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FATHER BROWN

we’re doing a fifties show we take themes from that period. So this one is about the demise of the aristocracy after the war when all these country houses fell into ruin, and the last one I did was about unmarried mothers. The next one I’m doing is about capital punishment. So that helps, picking a bit of a fifties topic to put in. The BBC love that sort of thing…

One of the most interesting things about the Father Brown character is that he’s not so much interested in upholding the law as he is saving souls. He usually has a moral standoff with the culprit at the end…are those bits fun to write?

Absolutely.Yes, the repentance scenes have got to be in there. I’m lapsed but my family is horrendously Catholic…My family is just filled with nuns and priests so [the scenes] aren’t so difficult to write. Naturally we’ve got to keep the Catholic theme running through!

Can you tell us a little bit about your next episode for this new series?

It’s called The Daughters of Jerusalem and it’s all about the Women’s Institute. It’s set in the world of small villages and cake competitions. Essentially the members of the WI start getting horribly murdered [laughs] but I can’t tell you who the murderer is. The interesting thing about that one is they wanted to give Mark Williams a break, because it’s episode 8 and he’ll be exhausted by then – I think he’s only in thirteen scenes, he’s sat up in a chair the whole time. He’s got his leg in plaster and Lady Felicia brings him a telescope, it’s a bit like Rear Window. He doesn’t actually move but he’s still got to solve the crime. His

friends Lady Felicia and Mrs McCarthy have got to go out like Cagney and Lacey and do all the legwork.

How did you first start out as a writer for television?

I entered a competition in the Radio Times [laughs]. It was to write an episode of Casualty, which was my favourite program. I wrote one and they offered me a job on Doctors. I worked in advertising before but I was a housewife at the time with three small children – you can do it from home, being a writer, and choose the hours that suit, so that’s good!

There’s another thing that I’ve noticed and it is that the fifties are far enough away to be very interesting to us and they are aren’t as explored as the twenties, thirties and forties, or even around the beginning of the century and the first World War. David Kynaston’s series of history books about post-war Britain has just gone into the fifties, which I’m looking forward to reading as I was born in 1959. And the fashions for women were just outstanding! The blokes looked dowdy and post-war and regimented but the whole kind of lace gloves and pencil skirts and flats look was brilliant.

Looking back on the last series, did you have a favourite episode?

Thank you, Jude.

Mark Williams

Father Brown himself, on the show’s success: So Father Brown is back for a second series. Why do you think viewers have responded so well to the show?

Well, I think it’s because it’s much more than just a whodunit. It’s about saving people’s souls, and obviously the Cotswolds is the other star of it. We have a very good scriptwriting team from BBC Birmingham set up for what is called Continuing Drama, so the scripts we get are always very lively.

We’ve got great characters, a fantastic supporting cast. Sorcha Cusack has made a brilliant character out of Mrs McCarthy, who is desperately unlikeable in many ways but you just can’t help but think she’s brilliant [laughs]. Nancy [Carroll] is outstanding as Lady Felicia.

Well, I really enjoyed watching Father Brown and I’m not just saying that because I am Father Brown, or because I know how it was made, but I really enjoyed it because there’s something very good about the storytelling. I really enjoyed the last episode, the Flambeau episode – that was the first [Brown] story author GK Chesterton wrote, but it was the last one we did. I enjoyed working with John Light, who played the thief Flambeau, and it was a good story too.

What mysteries is Father Brown getting entangled with this time?

We have various mysteries, various murders, we’ve – oh, hang on, I’ve got to go back…[to crew] Am I allowed to talk about the stories? No? No, I’m not allowed to!

Thank you, Mark. Looks like we’ll have to tune in with everyone else! www.cotswold-homes.com

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THEN AND NOW

THINK RECESSION, INFLATION and the property ladder are anything new? Take a trip to the Roman Cotswolds and discover just how similar life was back in the heyday of the Empire…

Before the Romans, there were no towns in Britain: the arrival of the Italians was a great civilising force. And in ancient Cirencester – the second largest town in Roman Britain, scarcely smaller than London itself - we have perhaps the greatest example of all their achievements.

To the Romans, towns were not only important centres for markets, administration and tax collection, but they also served to dispense Roman culture – in this case to the Dobunni, the local tribe. (Even without the Romans, the nearby area had been occupied as far back as 200,000 BC). Evidence suggests that the Roman fort at Corinium dated back as early as 42/43 AD. In 75 AD, invasion from Wales was no longer a significant fear, and the garrison stationed at Corinium was relocated. The fort was thrown down, but the civil infrastructure remained and a street grid was developed. Cirencester remained not only politically significant but was economically, industrially and artistically important too.

Life in Corinium Dobunnorum (Roman Cirencester) So, what mod cons did the residents of Roman Cirencester get?

Just like its current counterpart, Corinium was bustling and served with a wide range of amenities. Shops, baths, bars, food stalls, temples and a theatre were all developed alongside a great basilica and forum. Walls and massive 16

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gateways protected the city and cemeteries were established alongside the roads that led out from the city. (Civilian tombstones have even been found, complete with epitaphs).

The basilica was an incredible 103 metres long and was the centre of law and the meeting point of the town council. The public forum housed public ceremonies, assemblies, markets and businesses. You could also meet up with friends here for a chinwag. The basilica and forum were signature features of self-governing Roman communities and essential to civil life.

Not only did Corinium boast the largest mosaic workshop in England but also had an outstanding provincial school of sculpture. Pottery and agriculture were the town’s pre-eminent industries.

But perhaps Cirencester’s greatest asset was the amphitheatre, a huge oval public space that could accommodate up to an estimated 8,000 people. Here people could watch all manner of entertainments – from bear-baiting to boxing, hunting, wrestling and, of course, gladiatorial combat.

THEN AND NOW

Location, Location, Location Cirencester benefitted from an excellent position in the highway system and soon villa complexes prospered in the surrounding countryside. Within a 10 mile radius there are around ten (presently known) villas and many other buildings beside. The area would have attracted many wealthy residents (particularly if a governor sat nearby), which would have put plenty of coins in the pockets of mosaic makers – having an elaborate mosaic floor was the ultimate in status symbols.

But how many people lived in Corinium itself?

Experts think between 10,000 to 20,000 people could have inhabited the town, which is still comparable to its modern population.

Housing and Lifestyle

houses were beginning to be built with local limestone, people lived in timber-framed houses with thatched or tiled roofs. Houses were usually of a simple design, the simplest being a series of rooms with walls coated in plaster.

The houses of the wealthy were usually far more elaborate and could include luxuries such as hypocausts (that is, under-floor heating) and elaborate mosaics. The most extravagant could include multiple mosaics and numerous hypocausts.

In the countryside, the scale and complexity of villa complexes suggest that the owners could have

controlled vast swathes of agricultural land, concentrating wealth and influence in the hands of a prosperous few. When villas were left during times of economic stress, the ruins would sometimes become occupied by the rather less affluent.

Diet was another thing that distinguished the wealthy from the poor. Beef, mutton, duck, geese, pork and chicken were all widely eaten alongside vegetables and cereals but the rich could enjoy large meals with several courses featuring such delicacies as stuffed dormice, mussels, oysters, wine and pastries.

“Not only did Corinium boast the largest mosaic workshop in England but also had an outstanding provincial school of sculpture.�

Until midway through the 2nd century, when

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THEN AND NOW

Cirencester is now known for its boutiques and pleasant streets – but visitors can always pop into the Corinium Museum and revisit the town’s illustrious past.

Transport During the (near) four centuries of occupation, the Romans criss-crossed England with trunk roads, highways typically 5-8 metres wide and bordered by ditches. One of the largest of these, the Fosse Way (‘fosse’ meaning ditch), was an exceptionally lengthy 183 miles long and stretched from Exeter (Isca Dumnoniorum) through to Lincoln (Lindum Colonia), passing through Corinium on the way. Great sections of 18

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it have been incorporated into modern roads – especially here in the Cotswolds. Anyone who has travelled on the A429 through Stow, Moreton and Cirencester has been the way of the Romans.

and invasions made life a nightmare for the administrators of an increasingly vast territory.

War, Inflation, Economic Woes and the Fall of Corinium

Towards the end of the 3rd century, inflation had become a significant problem in Roman Britain.

The cost of living rose uncontrollably when currency was debased by a series of emperors.

Eventually Emperor Diocletian introduced a price cap on the cost of wages, goods and services.

The years between 235 AD and 286 AD were a dark period for the Roman Empire. Twenty-six emperors ruled in this period alone, and plagues

Corinium proved more resilient than most Roman settlements in Britain, maintaining its public buildings when in most in other towns they were left to fall into ruin. Estimates put the town’s

THEN AND NOW

population at its peak at around 350 AD. Findings indicate that the military presence in the town was strengthened.

In 407 AD, the fall of Roman-controlled France cut off Britain from the rest of the Roman Empire, and in 410 AD letters were dispatched to all towns announcing the end of all military support. As Corinium was ultimately dependent on the Empire, this was devastating for the town.

Inhabitants soon dispersed over the countryside.

It was likely a gradual process, with villas and administrative posts steadily abandoned and then inhabited by squatters, but Corinium eventually ceased to exist as an urban settlement.

Beyond the Fall But Cirencester’s role in English history did not end there. At the peak of the wool trade – responsible for a huge slice of England’s economy – Cirencester was right in the middle, with the quality of the wool from its Abbey lands famed as far as Italy. And when Charles II went on the run at the end of the third Civil War in 1651, he eluded capture in the Fleece Hotel. In recent times, Cirencester is now known for its boutiques and pleasant streets – but visitors can always pop into the Corinium Museum and revisit the town’s illustrious past.

Get acquainted with the Roman Cotswolds at: The Corinium Museum in Cirecester www.coriniummuseum.org Chedworth Roman Villa www.nationaltrust.org.uk /chedworth-roman-villa/

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PLANESPOTTING

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On the Horizon

From solar paint to virtual reality to satnav tractors, how might new technology change the Cotswolds? We report on low-impact developments that could come our way…

Tourism It is strange to think that we have the crumbling of a major industry to thank for the Cotswolds as we know them. The diminishment of the hugely prosperous medieval wool trade (for years the Cotswolds’ de facto source of income) resulted in the widespread preservation of the area’s Jurassic limestone buildings and cottages, as money for development dwindled.

The wealth of the area contracted and times grew harder – but, after many years had passed, the obsolescence of one industry was to prove the fertile foundation of another.

It was only with the commercial availability of the motorcar that our fortunes revived, as this authentic slice of Old England was opened up to tourism. The aged cottages of the local Jurassic oolitic limestone became unique attractions and, in time, commodities.

Rural existence became less elemental, less harsh as new sources of revenue were established.

Eventually, the availability of affordable air travel meant even people from overseas could visit with ease.

The image of the Cotswolds, too, has travelled far, becoming an internationally known brand. When foreigners envision the English countryside, it is often the mellow fields and sunbathed hilly vistas typical of the Cotswolds that they picture. Steven Spielberg recently filmed at Castle Coombe for his 2012 equine epic, War Horse – despite the story being set in Devon.

So it is perhaps indisputable that our heritage is our strongest asset. With major development 22

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On the Horizon

naturally discouraged, perhaps it is in the virtual world that the Cotswolds can best expand.

The invention and upcoming commercial availability of the ‘Google Glass’ – headgear that can transmit a digital image such as a map or a photograph directly onto your retina – and other such ‘augmented reality’ devices mean that in the virtual world there is potential for anything…

Even, perhaps, a reconstruction of the past?

Imagine being able to take a tour of a fully rebuilt Roman city of Corinium whilst wandering around Cirencester or seeing William Morris pottering around Broadway tower. Perhaps the damages done to Sudeley Castle over the many years could be patched up in the digital world, helping you to see it virtually reconstructed to how it was during Tudor queen Katherine Parr’s residency.

No ‘real-life’ changes to the landscape would be necessary: just the creation of a supplementary virtual reality, visible only through a device and enable/disabled by the touch of a button.

The streets could come alive with coaches and horses; the fields might be seen fill up with agricultural workers bustling around come harvest time. The local landscape hasn’t altered much over the long years, and it wouldn’t stretch the imagination to see such figures dropped into place by some crafty new technology.

Augmented reality is still in its infancy, of course, but you can see it in use everywhere. Stop by a cathedral and you may see somebody waving an iPad at a stained glass window – they may be able to zoom in on individual glass panels that would be difficult to see with the naked eye, while captions explain the history and details. Such innovations are already changing the formula of conventional touring.

“The need for clean energy is crucial, yet debates over the potential sources of that energy are as polarizing as ever.”

Energy, Housing and Community

panels are hideous, it is at least undeniable that the visual integrity of the Cotswolds, as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, should be carefully conserved.

But for all the gimmickry that gadgetry could bring to tourism, the Cotswold community itself will naturally be most affected by developments in energy provision, transport and housing - all delivered in a manner compatible with the character of this valuable area.

Earlier this year, scientists at the University of Sheffield announced the development of solar cells that can be distributed by spray coating, a method that potentially significantly reduces the cost and energy needed to make a solar cell.

The need for clean energy is crucial, yet debates over the potential sources of that energy are as polarizing as ever. In Willersey, plans for a 44 acre solar farm (of which ten acres constitute panels) have been met with some local opposition, despite the site’s potential to provide power for 1,500 homes and its concealment by existing and planted hedgerows. Arguments about the looks and productivity of eco-friendlier technologies abound whenever they are perceived to infringe on green space.

The common position against such developments is that they are blights on the landscape and deter tourism, the crux of the local economy.

Whether or not you believe that windmills and

The University’s Professor David Lidzey remarks: “Spray coating is currently used to apply paint to cars and in graphic printing. We have shown that it can also be used to make solar cells using specially designed plastic semiconductors.

Maybe in the future surfaces on buildings and even car roofs will routinely generate electricity with these materials.”

In the early stages of this technology, it is conceivable that spray coating can be used to realise the energy-harvesting potential of warped as well as flat surfaces. From there it takes little work to imagine a future where all windows and walls might be coated in a low visibility solar paint, generating enough energy per house to cover household usage. www.cotswold-homes.com

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On the Horizon

“Countless advances have been made in agriculture technology over recent years, from the ‘precision agriculture’ allowed by GPS-steered tractors to the development of soil science and biotechnology.”

University of Notre Dame scientists are already hard at work perfecting their own solar paste.

Laced with specially coated nano-particles of titanium oxide, the paint has been observed to generate electricity and can theoretically be applied via a good old fashioned paintbrush and heat gun. Don’t rush out your orders just yet, though – the product is still very much in the research stages.

But real change can start at home. Brenda Boardman, member of the University of Oxford’s Environmental Change institute, writes in her report ‘The Executive Summary of Home Truths’: ‘Of the homes we will inhabit in 2050, around 80 per cent are already standing today and these have to be the main focus for carbon-reduction policies.’ The household sector represents 27% of the UKs’ energy emissions and for us to play an adequate part in stopping the global temperature 24

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rising by more than 2°C, we need to play a part at home.

One nearby community is already embracing the opportunity to enhance their eco-credentials.

Transition Stroud is a highly organized local group devoted to leading a successful low-carbon lifestyle, one of over a thousand such initiatives.

From offering lectures on local currencies to suggesting low-impact trips family out, Transition Stroud is all about high quality sustainable living.

Visit www.transitionstroud.org to find out more about their activities.

Agriculture Just a glance at the Cotswold landscape reveals just how important agriculture is to our region.

Every year, our farmers are frustrated by

unpredictable weather – droughts or deluges, all have devastating influences on crop yields and the livelihoods of producers.

Countless advances have been made in agriculture technology over recent years, from the ‘precision agriculture’ allowed by GPS-steered tractors to the development of soil science and biotechnology.

Now scientists at the University of Iowa have created sensors the size of iPods which, submerged in soil, can continuously and wirelessly transmit data year around about the condition of the soil – from temperature to moisture and nutrient levels. Emitting a low-level radio frequency, these gadgets can be left in the ground year-round, communicating with a central computer and telling farmers how nitrogen and carbon are ‘cycling’ through the soil. By planting

On the Horizon

Transport The 20th century arrival of the motorcar reinvigorated the Cotswolds and allowed it to thrive into its present condition. Formerly prosperous towns such as Northleach have changed from being neglected and underoccupied in the early 20th century to becoming well-connected and highly sought after as progress marched on.

Given the rural nature of the area, most who live here and work here today are dependent on their cars. As peak oil is reached, alternative forms of travel – or at least an alternative to the internal combustion engine – will have to be devised.

Electric cars already exist and many believe they will play a crucial role in breaking our dependency on oil. Zero emissions, less frequent maintenance and fuel savings make a powerful case for going electric.

The current downsides are the recharge time

and driving range, as well as the current lack of public recharging infrastructure. A car that can travel only 60-100 miles on a full charge and takes several hours to recharge may not fit comfortably into everybody’s lifestyle.

Many are now looking to emission free hydrogenpowered cars to deliver the next automotive revolution. Toyota has committed to introducing hydrogen cars to the market by 2015. Vehicles are projected to retail at around $50,000 – a huge decrease from the original cost of around $1,000,000 for the same unit, thanks to massive falls in the cost of production.

The UKH2 Mobility report, an investigation into the application of hydrogen vehicles and refilling infrastructure, was published in April this year. It looks at the possibility of collaboration between government and industry to realise the possibility of low carbon travel using hydrogen-powered automobiles. The report predicts over one and a half million such vehicles could be on our roads by 2013.

four or more sensors to an acre, farmers could make savings on water, fertilizer and other expenses.

But maybe farmers could do away with fertilizer altogether? Experiments are underway to create a cocktail of naturally occurring microbes that would reduce the need for nitrogen and phosphorous fertilisers, increase yields and also fight against pathogens.

Microbiology professor C.A Reddy was able to increase the fruit yields of field-grown tomato plants by close to 90% by introducing his liquid microbe additive and is currently studying its effects on other crops. When you consider that around 1.2% of global greenhouse emissions are caused by the production of chemical fertilisers, microbes might just help the environment out a little, too.

To find out about the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the issues that affect it – from climate change to sustainable tourism and farming – visit www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk www.cotswold-homes.com

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Diary of an Equestrian Lady

DIARY OF AN EQUESTRIAN LADY Vittoria riding rock model and leading the horse for a two horse training session. Photo credit - Smania HR

Vittoria Panizzon Le Dolce Vita Nel Cotswolds

Collette Fairweather meets Italian Olympic rider Vittoria Panizzon to discuss horses, the air force and her Italian oasis in the heart of the North Cotswolds.

It’s just like a scene lifted from the silver screen: Vittoria appears on horseback, marching through the long grass of the track. Her steed gleams from his gallop, his coat shimmering with every muscular stride, as her flaxen hair falls loose and catches the last of the sunlight. She dismounts with effortless ease, handing her horse to a waiting groom.With an engaging smile, she removes a glove to shake my hand, her brilliant blue eyes meeting mine.

Perching on a paddock wall, I attempt to conduct our interview whilst being occasionally nuzzled of one of its residents, whom I doubt appreciates his elevated view of the bubonic panorama that the evening light illuminates.

Although the Cotswolds are one of the most beautiful places to live, with Vittoria’s yard located in particularly picturesque spot near Stow on the Wold, I still wonder what really tempted her onto English soil - especially when she was at the top of her game in Italy representing her country at pony, junior, young 28

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Vittoria Panizzon, borough pennyz barbury 2012. Photo credit - Libby Law photography

Diary of an Equestrian Lady

The Fidelity Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials

Vittoria Panizzon, borough pennyz bramham 2012. Photo credit - Tim Speight photography

Vittoria with one promising young horse. Photo credit - Smania HR

“Although I had a great start there, I needed to come to the UK, to take that next step,” she replies. “I have always loved green fields and big hills, and that’s one of the main reasons I moved from Italy.There are lots of green fields in Italy, but they’re in Tuscany, which unfortunately isn’t anywhere near Rome where I grew up! I was a long way away from anything practical, and I’m very keen on preparing horses on the most traditional way. I do a huge amount of hacking, and turn out. I work them in fields a lot.They have to be so fit for eventing so the hillier the better.”

Without a suggestion of false modesty, she adds: “My success in Italy was due to a much smaller pond – I started riding because my mother was interested in horses…I had great instructors when I was in Rome and it progressed from there. I naturally wanted to event as it seemed the most fun thing to do, and I was lucky enough to have ponies that sent me in the right direction and instructors to guide me further – and so I had very good results in Italy.

There are also personal reasons for the move.

“My father died when I was young, and my mother was finding the Italian heat difficult to live with, so she was keen to move back this way.”

Vittoria is easily recognisable when competing due to her military uniform. I’m curious as to her actual involvement as a corporal in the Italian Air Force, holding as she does the rank of Aviere Capo?

“In Italy it’s kind of a sport funding. One of the best

The 23rd Annual Fidelity Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials, in Woodstock near Oxford, will take place by kind permission of the Duke of Marlborough between the 12th and the 15th September.

The beautiful grounds, landscaped by Capability Brown, will play host to over 50,000 visitors and a wealth of international eventing talent, seeing them compete in Dressage, Show Jumping and across the country.

Vittoria Panizzon, merlots magic in weston park 2013. Photo credit - Blackheart Imagery

rider and senior levels, having been a member of the national senior squad at major championships since 2005.

Fiona Scott-Maxwell photography

ways to gain support is to be part of an armed force, and this applies to all sports in Italy. It’s because the armed forces like to be represented in sport – it is good publicity and they feel the values of sport match their values. I represent them in uniform and occasionally turn up for official representative duties in Italy - and hey, navy jodhpurs are simply wonderful!”

It wouldn’t be right if I didn’t bring up Borough Pennyz, the beautiful grey mare who was dubbed ‘the jumping machine’ at London 2012. What is Vittoria’s plan for her this year and being that she is a long way from retirement, is she considering breeding via a surrogate?

“Her general aim now is the Europeans which are in Sweden. She actually won the best mare prize at Badminton, which is a voucher for embryo transfer, so I think Sally (Bullen – Pennyz owner) may look into it now. It is completely her decision, she has always been traditional about breeding - however, financially it would be very helpful and we could have a baby Pennyz to play within a few years, rather than many years.”

With our time drawing to an end and keen to see Vittoria in action, I ask if any competitions are on the horizon.

“I am aiming a horse for Blenheim, Merlots Magic went well at Barbury, placing 13th in his section of the CIC***, so it all looks promising. Blenheim has always been one of my favourite events, due partly to the beautiful setting, stunning palace, beautiful parkland… and the shopping if you get time!”

For further information on livery, clinics and tuition, please see - www.vittoriapanizzon.com

Visitors can also see the riders enter into the less serious, but highly competitive Eventers high jump class, where horse and rider scale fences up to six feet some without the aid of a saddle!

There’s a wide range of free-to-view displays and demonstrations in the Blenheim Attractions Arena and an extensive choice of eating facilities and food and drink pavilion.

There are also hundreds of trade stands including large craft marquee and children’s attractions, sports cars displays and activities for non-horsey family members as well as the more equine orientated ones!

Spectators can choose between admissiononly tickets starting at just £10 when booked in advance and those which include allocated grandstand seats, picnic passes or VIP Members upgrades which allow access to the Main Arena Ringside Member’s facility.

The advance online box office offers significant savings over the ‘on event’ gate price and a complimentary car parking pass for each booking.

See www.blenheim-horse.co.uk for further details.

Win one of three pairs of Sunday adult admission passes to the event with complimentary general public car parking for Sunday 15th September (accompanied children under 12 enter for free). See page 4 for more details. www.cotswold-homes.com

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Moreton Show

The Glorious

Moreton Show

Cotswold Farm Park’s Adam Henson shares his admiration for Moreton’s annual show.

Adam at Cheltenham Races, 2012 Adam at Three Counties Show, 2013

I’ve noticed that there’s one thing that newcomers to Moreton Show always seem to say: ‘I can’t believe just how many people are here.’

With around 20,000 visitors descending every year, Moreton Show has a turnout and atmosphere comparable to that of a large-scale music festival, enticing visitors from all over the country to its mixture of rural charms. Incredibly, it’s now been going since 1949, and is one of the big shows to retain a real community feel.

Yet despite the welcome addition of numerous attractions, stalls and family entertainments, the event wears its heritage on its sleeve: it is one of the UK’s largest one-day agricultural shows, a faithful celebration of the dedicated farmers and producers who altogether make Britain great.

Anybody who has visited Cotswold Farm Park or follows me on Countryfile will know that I have a natural preoccupation with all things livestock, and Moreton Show is a great showcase for many farmers who share my passion.

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“Incredibly, it’s now been going since 1949, and is one of the big shows to retain a real community feel.”

The ceremonious spectacle of prize bulls, goats, horses and poultry competing for the top spot in their respective categories may seem almost eccentric at first glance, but it constitutes a real opportunity for those in the industry to have their hard work publicly noticed – and rewarded.

Professional interests aside, one of the great pleasures of Moreton Show is just strolling about and seeing what’s going on. Over 300 stalls and trade stands new and returning, the ever-captivating Grand Arena, the horse jumping and dog rings, the Food Hall – all these are quintessential ingredients of a standout country show, and year on year Moreton delivers in style.

With attractions this year including a freestyle

motocross display, a falconry show, cheerleading and the ever-popular terrier races, Saturday the 7th of September is an essential date in the Cotswold calendar.

This year we’ll be representing the Cotswold Farm Park in the Country and Heritage Arena. Why not come and see what we’ve got in store?

See you at the Show,

Ada m Henson Moreton Show – 7th September 2013.

Gates open at 7.30am Gates close at 6pm

Annie Pearce

Life enhancing gardens

by Annie Pearce

Although it might seem a little premature to be thinking about how your garden will look next year, experienced gardeners know that forward planning is essential so if you would like your garden to look even better next summer, now is the perfect time to take stock. Think about what worked and what didn’t and take action. Don’t delay until next spring but use these mellow days of autumn well and you will be rewarded a hundredfold next year!

It’s planting time!

This really is the perfect time to get into your garden and start digging.The ground is still warm and moist and whatever you plant now will have time to get established before winter sets in, so that when spring arrives the garden will be ready to give its all! Although I know it’s tempting to buy the more impressive looking plants in larger sized pots, do buy the smaller ones - they will establish more quickly and give you the same effect in no time at all.Then, use the money you’ve saved upon improving your soil. If you follow the old saying “spend a penny on the plant 32

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and a pound on the soil’ you will not go wrong. Make sure you prepare the ground thoroughly, add as much organic compost as you can lay your hands on and your plants will love you forever!

When you’ve finished planting, cover the whole area with a thick eiderdown of mulch.This not only looks great but also it really does help to keep in the moisture and reduce weed seedlings. My favourite of all time is Strulch - used throughout the Royal Horticulture Society gardens and available on line and at garden centres. For more information do

look at the company’s website: www.strulch.co.uk

Jewels in the crown In spring and summer months, flowering bulbs and corms add a real sparkle to our gardens, so to ensure that spring starts with a real burst of colour in your garden, start buying your bulbs now. It is always best to plant them as soon as you receive them but if the weather is against you, as long as they are kept in a dark, dry place they should be fine until you are ready to do so. Just remember to check that they are not going mouldy.

Annie Pearce

“The best tool I have, and recommend to all my clients, is the Mira trowel from Implementations.

It’s not cheap but it’s worth every penny.”

Tulips and alliums are firm favourites with everyone but try planting some more unusual ones such as Camassias, Fritillarias, Erythroniums and Ornithogalum magnum. Many of these will be available at local garden centres but if you would like to choose from a much wider selection then have a look at the following websites ... you will be spoilt for choice. www.peternyssen.com www.livingcolourbulbs.co.uk www.blomsbulbs.co.uk

And one more tip... please don’t waste your money on bulb planters. I can’t tell you how many I’ve tried over the years but they just don’t work unless you have the lightest soil imaginable.The best tool I have, and recommend to all my clients, is the Mira trowel from Implementations. It’s not cheap but it’s worth every penny.The company also has a tremendous range of other gardening tools so, again, do have a look at their website www.implementations.co.uk And finally, a heartfelt plea on behalf of all gardeners,

designers and landscapers… iI you are thinking about making some major changes to your garden and need some professional help and advice on how to make your dream garden a reality in 2014, please don’t put if off until spring, ask for help now!

Then there’s a real chance that together we can create something truly magical for you in time for next summer.

For further help or advice, please call Annie on 07973 137808 or visit www.anniepearce.co / www.metamorphosisdesign.co.uk www.cotswold-homes.com

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EVESHAM ASPARAGUS

Crofters, Cotswold Meadows, Great Rissington

ÂŁ659,000

A cotswold stone detached house situated in an extremely sought after village.

Entrance hall | Cloakroom | Sitting Room | Dining Room | Kitchen/Breakfast Room | Utility Room | Galleried Landing | Four Bedrooms Two Ensuites | Bathroom | Gravelled Driveway | Double Garage | Garden Fine and Country Harrison James & Hardie, Bourton on the Water 01451 822 977

Bourton on the Water | Moreton in Marsh | Mayfair | Lettings

Emilys Cottage, Ebrington

ÂŁ665,000

A substantial Grade II Listed thatched cottage offering generously proportioned and beautifully presented accommodation.

Dining hall | Conservatory/garden room | Sitting room | Study/TV room | Kitchen | Master bedroom with ensuite bathroom | Guest bedroom with ensuite bathroom | Two further bedrooms | Family shower room | Stone built outbuildings | Garden to rear | Cedar summerhouse with countryside views Greenhouse | Parking for several vehicles | EPC Rating: D Fine and Country Harrison James & Hardie, Moreton in Marsh 01608 651 000

view all our properties at harrisonjameshardie.co.uk

From Retail to Residential

From Retail to Residential The Changing Face of the High Street One of the downsides of any recession is the visible impact on the high street - the inevitable proliferation of empty units and run-down premises that make even the most affluent of communities anxious, denting their sense of security in surrounding property values.

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And this recession has had a double whammy for the retail sector – on-line sales have exponentially increased, allowing businesses to market their wares without the expense of a high street outlet. It is highly likely, even when the recession is broadly over, that businesses will continue to debate the need for a high street presence and, in the process, the centres of our villages and towns will need to change for good.

What will happen to retail premises with the move towards on-line sales becoming more and more appealing, even in times of plenty?

In villages and towns across the North Cotswolds where there is a shortage of housing and property values are high, we have a new opportunity to create homes from old business premises. Whilst the loss of local, friendly

amenities is to be mourned, the aesthetic is generally not. Typically, retail units such as garages and general stores are architecturally unappealing, especially so if they are abandoned. A particular case in point is the Old Stores in Shipton Under Wychwood, an ugly, disused building that has been recently demolished to create a little row of stunning three storey new-build cottages in the centre of the village, much improving the local outlook for neighbouring homes.

Here, renowned local builder Adam Smith of Mirus Construction Ltd was employed to come up with an imaginative scheme to mirror the established vernacular. Adam’s company is experienced in providing high quality and professionally managed construction services across the Cotswolds. Although a young

From Retail to Residential

delighted with the end result.”

The end result has been four new homes of great quality and individuality. These beautiful, one-off, architect-designed properties will be suitable equally as family residences or indeed holiday cottages - as Andy Soye’s assessment proves is eminently feasible - a fabulous example of how good things can emerge from bad times. Whilst it is human nature to regret the inevitability of change on the high street, projects like the Old Stores underline why we must embrace such opportunities. We can improve the presentation and heritage of our lovely Cotswold villages and towns and even create business opportunities of a different kind for the new owners!

company, having formed in 2006, Mirus has already completed around thirty new dwellings across the region for a mix of both private and developer clients, meanwhile receiving industry recognition for their high standard of quality and workmanship. Of particular note were two nominations in 2012 by Cotswold District Council for quality awards, as a result of which a new build house in Todenham (near Moreton in Marsh) was awarded a place in the final of the ‘West of England LABC Building Excellence Awards’ in the ‘Best Individual Dwelling’ category.

Adam says of the build at Shipton Under Wychwood: “The Old Stores was a challenging project, involving demolition of the old Costcutters’ store alongside the village green, whilst also maintaining access through the site to the residents of Evenlode Terrace. After extensive trials, a mix of hand dressed natural Cotswold stone from three different quarries was brought together to complement the period proper ties in the vicinity of the site and locally produced diminishing roof tiles were used to fur ther enhance the location. We were

Mat Faraday, of Character Cottages says...

“With three pubs and a shop, surrounded by beautiful countryside and attractions such as Blenheim Palace, the location should attract guests all year round. Providing gardens and parking, well laid out ground floor spaces, high quality kitchens and a generous number of bathrooms, these will appeal to affluent customers, including the important US market.

As such, sleeping between 6 - 8 people, we would expect £35,000 - £40,000 gross revenue per annum from each cottage.”

Priced from £319,950. To book an appointment to view, contact the Bourton on the Water branch of Harrison James & Hardie on 01451 822977 or for more details and a floor plan, simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com

www.cotswold-homes.com

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The Henever, Upper Rissington

The Henever Upper Rissington

...Those who have brought up families here over the last few years already know what a wonderful place Upper Rissington is to live....

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The Henever, Upper Rissington

RAF Little Rissington was an important outpost during World War II and in peacetime went on to become a flying school, before eventually being loaned to the American air force. A stream of local dignitaries enjoyed a privileged social life in its heyday – indeed, the Queen Mother stayed on one occasion at the base commander’s house.

Many lively balls were held at the Officers’ Mess, often going on until dawn, and for officers it was undoubtedly a rather glamorous place to live.

The whole site was eventually sold off after the Americans departed in the mid-90s, except the airfield itself, and the original homes were all refurbished for new, private occupancy. Those who have brought up families here over the last few years already know what a wonderful place Upper Rissington is to live. Set high up on a Cotswold plain and surrounded by open countryside within a triangle formed by Stow on the Wold, Burford and Bourton on the Water, this little rural community has much to offer on its doorstep, including outstanding schools and easy access to major arterial routes, not least a mainline station to London Paddington within a quarter of an hour’s drive.

Now a select development of new homes is being built on the southern edge of the village, taking the place of old, disused buildings and hangers that for a while provided a light industrial park.

Other than some fairly spectacular demolition work, landscaping is relatively easy – the site is blessed with a huge variety of beautiful, mature British trees. Mirroring the vernacular of the old village with a range of starter and family properties broadening out into little cul-de-sacs of luxury homes enjoying splendid views, the village will boast an improved range of facilities and amenities including a new primary school and a market square of shops.

The Henever is one of the houses currently being built in the first phase of the development by Bovis Homes. This detached property has a wonderfully free-flowing living space including a study, with luxurious open-plan kitchen/dining room and a sitting room with patio doors opening out onto a private, enclosed garden. On the first floor there are four generous bedrooms and two bathrooms, all arranged around a wide, light-filled balcony landing. Outside, there is a detached garage and ample parking, making it a perfect family home.

With a range of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom properties on offer at Victory Fields, The Henever featured is a show home – simply arrange an appointment via the sole agents Harrison James & Hardie on 01451 822977, or for further details and a floor plan visit www.cotswold-homes.com

www.cotswold-homes.com

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Beechcroft House

Beechcroft House Bourton on the Water

When Richard Hull’s parents first saw Beechcroft House in 1994, they fell in love instantly. “They walked up the drive to the front door and that was it,” says Richard.

“They knew immediately this was going to be their forever family home.”

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Situated on Moore Road in Bourton on the Water, Beechcroft House is one of the landmark properties in this famous village. Constructed of Cotswold stone by renowned local builders Wheelers of Lower Slaughter, the house sits on a half-acre plot previously owned by local benefactor George Moore, and a replica can be seen in miniature form at the famous model village in the grounds of the Old New Inn. Its first owner was a newspaper proprietor who stayed until his death in 1942, when it was let to a Major serving in the Royal Canadian Airforce, stationed at RAF Little Rissington. He lived there with his wife and four small daughters

throughout the war but once peace was restored, the property was sold on to a local lady, Winifred Clifford. She lived at Beechcroft House for another thirty years before it was sold to another local family, the Colletts, who in turn sold to the Hulls twenty years later.

Clearly, this has been a much loved home, lived in for decades by each of the previous owners.

Sadly, Richard’s parents have now both died, since when Richard has taken three years to come to the reluctant conclusion that it is now time to downsize. Before parting with the property he has de-cluttered and carried out essential repairs, including a new roof. Today, the potential

Beechcroft House

of this charming property is self-evident – two large principal reception rooms each with open fireplaces, a generous kitchen/breakfast room with walk-in larder and separate utility, a sunlit conservatory overlooking the garden, plus five bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor.

There is still plenty of room to extend into the loft and out to the back where beautiful, mature, landscaped gardens are positively bursting with flowering plants, trees and shrubs.

With the benefit of plentiful parking to the front and easy side access, could this spacious home offer an opportunity for a developer? Richard sees the prospect is possible but rather fervently hopes it won’t. “It has been a magical home and I shall be so sad to go. The garden is huge and the house is just much too big for me. I would be delighted to sell to a family who will love it in exactly the same way,” he says regretfully at the prospect of leaving. “I hope whoever buys next will get as much joy out of the garden in particular, as my parents once did. There’s plenty of space to live the good life with a fabulous vegetable plot plus all the established fruit trees, of course. It would be wonderful to think of young children playing and running around here on the lawns, making dens in all the hideaway

places and kicking a football about, completely safe and sound.”

Bourton on the Water is indeed an ideal proposition for a family. With a host of tourist attractions, including Birdland and the Model Village, there is never a reason to be bored, although for most children a stroll to feed the ducks on this famous stretch of the Windrush - with the obligatory quick paddle - is probably entertainment enough! Here, too, is a wide range of amenities for all ages. An excellent local bus service, a great primary and an outstanding secondary school, two supermarkets, a plethora of gift and tea shops, good pubs and hotels are all within a short level walk to the centre, so it is little wonder that so many find it a perfect place to live.

Open countryside walks are another bucolic pleasure. “You can go down Cemetery Lane, just a couple of minutes from here, and then branch out over the fields. It’s a particularly lovely, tranquil walk into the setting sun towards Wyck Rissington. Instead, one can just as easily follow the little footpath from Sherborne Street in the opposite direction, tracing the course of the river over pasture land and from there, out on to the Cotswold Way.”

Andy Soye, of Character Cottages holiday letting company, says… “This is a magnificent character property, situated in a very popular Cotswold village. Its stunning structure, once properly furnished, will make for fabulous marketing, catching the eye of wealthy holidaymakers. The ground floor space, arranged around the double fronted design, works beautifully - providing guests with separate, spacious living, dining and kitchen areas. Heading upstairs, there are 5 double bedrooms, capable of sleeping 10. Taking all these factors into account, this house should generate £65,000 - £75,000 gross revenue per annum.”

Beechcroft House is offered for sale with a price guide of £750,000 by Harrison James & Hardie Fine & Country, Bourton on the Water.

For further details please contact Katy Hill on 01451822977 or visit www.cotswold-homes.com. Viewing strictly by prior appointment only.

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Hillside, Paxford – Honed to Perfection

Hillside, Paxford Honed to Perfection

Hillside is a substantial, six bedroom detached property tucked into a quiet location amongst a little cluster of neighbouring properties on the edge of Paxford. Enjoying a rural outlook over the distant hills and occupying an elevated position, Hillside presents a charming and yet very discreet exterior.

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Only visitors who go beyond the front door will discover the true nature of the property - an inspired and hugely spacious, beautifully designed and glamorous residence. Modern, bright, pristine and elegant, presented to an impeccably high standard, Hillside has been comprehensively updated and extended to make the most of its position, enjoying a private rear aspect over landscaped gardens and looking onto delightful pasture land beyond.

The hamlet of Paxford nestles midway between Blockley and Chipping Campden on the border of three counties – Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire – and is particularly renowned for its lovely gastro pub, the Churchill Arms, winner of many foodie awards over recent years and Michellin recommended. A fantastic location for family life, having many excellent primary and secondary schools close by (both state and private), Paxford is ideally situated for access to local

towns and day-to-day needs. Only ten minutes away, the backbone of the Fosseway and the mainline train to Worcester/ London meet at Moreton in Marsh, a historic market town larger centres such as Cheltenham, Evesham, Stratford Upon Avon and Oxford are also easily accessible within an hour or so.

When Hillside was sold in 2004, it was a modest, tired property, occupying a relatively small plot. Possessing a clear vision of what might be possible, coupled with considerable ingenuity and investment of time, energy and funds, the current owners set about a complete transformation.

Architect-designed to a very high specification and now fully equipped for 21st century living, the original house was meticulously stripped back before being comprehensively extended and improved throughout into an impressive and capacious family home. The coup de grace was unarguably the acquisition of a large section of garden from a neighbouring property that

Hillside, Paxford – Honed to Perfection

“flowing open-planned rooms suffused with light, all of which are presented in meticulous decorative order.”

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Hillside, Paxford – Honed to Perfection

effectively doubled the original outside space.

Today the house has flowing open-planned rooms suffused with light, all of which are presented in meticulous decorative order.

A wide hallway leads onto four beautifully appointed reception rooms and a fabulous kitchen breakfast room at the heart of the house facing, like the neighbouring dining room, out onto the garden.

Sleek and amply stocked with a range of generously fitted cupboards and integrated appliances including a traditional range cooker, the kitchen’s large central breakfast bar and work station provide an informal, sociable entertainment space, particularly in summer – full-height glazed doors almost span the breadth of the property to the rear. Outside, a paved terrace is ideal for entertaining on balmy days and summer evenings. Raised formal lawns surrounded by beech hedging and prettily stocked borders are afforded a high degree of privacy.

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Upstairs, over two floors, there are six bedrooms and three bathrooms - the master suite has a luxurious bathroom with a freestanding clawfooted bath as its centrepiece. Further touches of luxury abound, including an integrated, wireless communication and entertainment system - provided by almost three miles of hidden cabling - allowing multiple users the facility to work, rest and play in different locations throughout the house.

A separate, bespoke home office in the lower part of the garden is connected by a phone entry system and provided with its own kitchenette and w.c. With the potential to create an outdoor swimming pool, for which pipes are already set into the groundwork, this office could easily be converted into a sauna and changing room, or further guest accommodation, perhaps.

Entirely necessary for the enjoyment of rural life, a generous vegetable garden lies beyond, discreetly out of view, designed to suit the most enthusiastic gardener should one wish fully to

embrace the good life. Undoubtedly, a particular delight is the expanse of lovely pasture beyond the post and rail fencing – a gardener’s answer to an infinity pool, enjoying the view without any of the responsibility or the upkeep!

From the front, Hillside reveals little of its size and is therefore an ideal property for those who require security and privacy - however, given much of this wonderful home is simply not appreciable to the casual visitor and to understand the true nature of the interior, accompanied viewing is essential.

Hillside is offered for sale at £1.2 million through the offices of Harrison James and Hardie Fine & Country at Moreton in Marsh. To arrange an appointment to view, contact Tom Burdett on 01608 651000 or to download full particulars, simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com

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Wheelwrights House, Blockley

Wheelwrights House Situated on the High Street in Blockley, Wheelwrights House might appear to be a typical, pretty, doublefronted period cottage but, stepping through over the threshold, one finds instead a magical home, full of surprises and quirky, luxurious touches, rather than a conventional Cotswold property.

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Owned by an experienced commercial architect and a London-based interior designer who bought the house as their dream family home, the whole has been carefully renewed, refurbished and extended upwards and downwards - empathetic yet entirely modern, eminently practical and relaxed in feel, its transformation is quite distinct from the traditional, conservative makeover. Equipped with a savvy Londoner’s understanding about how to make the most of potential, combined with creative ingenuity and design experience bringing a host of fresh ideas and solutions, the current vendors have significantly improved on the amount of usable space to provide a uniquely lovely home.

Mixing new and original throughout, using a wide palette of colours and textures, the natural beauty

and character of the property have been carefully maintained with exposed A frames and beams, stonework, flagstone floors and open fireplaces but enhanced by the use of many different fabrics, modern materials and mood lighting. Now a large four bedroomed home with accommodation arranged on five floors, the property includes a mezzanine kitchen breakfast room that opens out onto a large and private garden with landscaped terrace, a cellar decked out as a perfect children’s den (equally, a gymnasium if one wished) and, on the top floor, a new master bedroom suite boasting a fabulously indulgent bathroom with a deep tear-drop bath and walk-in shower.

The exceptional height of the main reception room is just one of the surprises awaiting visitors.

A perfect entertaining space for a sociable family, with huge sofas gathered around a wide, open

Wheelwrights House, Blockley

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Wheelwrights House, Blockley

fireplace, this is a room for big occasions like Christmas, whilst the smaller reception room opposite is informal and comfortable, for TV suppers and kicking heels after school. From the reception hall, a few steps rise to the mezzanine floor where the kitchen in particular reflects the owners’ taste and style - a beautiful and highly tactile environment. Deliberately both modern and timeless, with exposed stone walls and smooth tiled floor, fitted with a great range of high gloss cupboards, it has an unusual piece de resistance - a ceiling of taut caramel-coloured rubber that reflects light and suffuses the room in a warm glow. There are architect plans to extend the kitchen, effectively creating a glass atrium along the whole of the rear to take in a detached cottage into the main house, but at present double doors simply open out onto a wide, sunny and sheltered terrace overlooking delightful gardens.

Accessed from the terrace is a laundry room fitted out as a housewife’s dream and, should it all get too much like hard work, a Swedish sauna to boot! A particular advantage in this busy little village, ample off-street parking for the main house is gained from neighbouring Chapel Street directly to the rear, but the detached cottage at the end of the terrace has its own pedestrian access from the High Street.

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Currently used as a home office, the cottage could easily be equipped as a completely selfcontained one-bedroomed annexe - providing a welcome income stream as a holiday let or a solution for the growing trend towards multigenerational family life. Simply by taking a little piece of terrace and a small strip of the garden, it could be afforded complete privacy from the main house. (To give an idea of rental values as a holiday home, Character Cottages has another one bedroom property on the High Street that brings in around £400 gross income per week).

Wheelwright House is particularly suited, as the owners envisaged from the moment they saw it, to bringing up a young family. Private and secure, having plenty of room to grow and breathe with a great expanse of garden and generously proportioned rooms, just as importantly it also allows the grown-ups of the family to coexist equally happily. A luxurious and elegant home with an inspired interior of considerable grace and charm, it also benefits from a hugely sociable position within the village. There are wonderful walks, a renowned primary school, coffee shop, post office, delicatessen, an active church, a good hotel and a great pub all within a few minutes’ walk of the front door.

Andy Soye, of Character Cottages holiday letting company, says….: “This is a fabulously finished period house, oozing character, charm and ultra-modern style, with a lovely private garden and ample off-street parking. As a holiday let sleeping 8 adults (+ 2, with a sitting room used as a bedroom) it will certainly stand out from the crowd. Given the right photography, pricing and marketing it is likely to outperform its competition, particularly as Blockley is a great village with a proven track record in strong holiday lets. We would expect the main house to achieve at least £50,000 - £60,000 per annum, gross revenue.

In addition, the one bed cottage (refurbished as an independent unit with private access and its own garden) should achieve between £15,000 to £18,000 gross revenue per annum.

Wheelwright House is offered for sale at £895,000 through the offices of Harrison James and Hardie Fine & Country at Moreton in Marsh. To arrange an appointment to view, contact Tom Burdett on 01608 651000 or to download full particulars, simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com

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HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Becoming a Professional Landlord Caroline Gee

Q A

If I were considering an investment into Lettings before prices start to reflect the reported upturn, where would you suggest I start looking, what would you recommend in terms of the size and type of property to buy and why?

According to reports in recent months, rents will climb by as much as 18% over the next five years despite recovery in mortgage availability in the sales sector. Many people have insufficient savings to purchase, even with government incentive schemes designed to motivate the new homes market, for example. Combined with underlying capital growth, there has never been a more sensible time to consider becoming a professional landlord and many would agree it is an excellent alternative to a pension scheme for those investing on a longterm basis. Not only is it good for you - renting is not simply a stopgap option but an on-going necessity for many, so tenants will be happiest with professional landlords who can offer security and longevity.

When looking for properties that are most suited to the Lettings market, it is important to consider the most basic maxim – the greater the number of bedrooms generally gives the greater return on your investment and, in this local market place, modern estate properties therefore give the best return. This doesn’t necessarily mean bedrooms on the first floor – a dining room or study can easily be converted into a bedroom, of course. Three or four bedroom properties in central locations are most popular and of these, family homes in striking distance of good schools, services and amenities are most likely to rent out quickly. Equally desirable are one and two bedroom properties suitable for couples and young professionals – apartments and starter homes.

We have a large number of applicants desperate to find a home and properties are usually snapped up extremely fast. For instance, we took on a two bedroomed property in Corders Lane in Moreton in Marsh where only an hour later we signed the paperwork with the incoming tenant. Not everything goes quite that quickly but we do expect to rent out our properties within two weeks, within the usual price range of £500 to £1500 per calendar month. Flexibility and presentation are also important factors if you hope to attract good tenants. Choosing not to allow children or pets will reduce your opportunities, of course, and although it’s tempting not to spend money on your investment before you rent it out, properties in excellent decorative order are most likely to let quickly, with as much as a ten per cent uplift in achieved rents for the most desirably presented and well-maintained.

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My advice is to look out for properties in older residential developments, something structurally sound that could do with a little bit of money being spent to improve the presentation and fixtures, one that is competing with newer homes within the same locality.

Such a house is likely to be priced competitively to sell and might be negotiated more successfully than one in really good order. With a lick of neutral paint, fresh carpets and a general upgrade on kitchens and bathrooms a property like this should perform well on underlying capital growth if you spend money carefully. Do put some money and time into repairs and refurbishment - don’t be tempted to rent out properties in poor condition with old fashioned décor as tenants want a home they can feel proud to live in. Not only does condition make a difference to how quickly a property will let, tenants are far more likely to look after a good home and will stay longer, too.

The majority of tenants are very cost conscious and so, unlike buyers, will take real note of the Energy Performance Certificate to work out what the monthly bills are likely to be. If you buy a property that needs work, don’t just attend to the presentation but also upgrade the heating system, insulate the loft and install new windows and doors before you get the EPC done. All boilers and electrics must be in good working order and signed off before a house can be let - you can’t cut corners where health and safety are concerned, of course.

We offer a range of services from tenant-introduction to fully managed lets. Most of our professional landlords are only too happy to let us do all the paperwork and on-going management, avoiding the headaches of rent collection and niggling maintenance problems that might arise, such as dripping taps and overgrown gardens. We also do inventories, carry out regular inspections and keep you abreast of changes in law that you need to be aware of – meaning you can concentrate your energies on finding your next property to let out!

Caroline Gee is a director at HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE estate agency, a local independent company that has enjoyed consistent success as market leaders and specialists in Residential Sales and Lettings of North Cotswold properties for well over a decade, and has the agency licence for Fine & Country in the North Cotswolds.

To speak to Caroline, telephone 01608 653896 or 01451 824972 or e-mail caroline@harrisonjameshardie.co.uk. To view properties for sale or to let, visit www.cotswold-homes.com.

HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Mortgage Matters Sue Ellis

Q A

I have a colleague who was discussing their portfolio of Buy To Let Properties the other day and I have to confess, I wish I had invested similarly. What is the mortgage market like at the moment for potential and existing Landlords?

In the past, anyone wanting a mortgage on a property that was to be let out was faced with a small choice of specialist lenders offering high rates and charges – suitable lending was difficult to obtain, due to various factors. It was only in the late 1990s that the situation began to alter, with a change in the law making it easier for landlords to regain possession of their properties, reducing the risk of being left with a sitting tenant. This then encouraged High Street lenders to move into this area of the mortgage market, with the phrase ‘Buy to Let’ being coined.

There are now around seventy mainstream and specialist lenders offering Buy to Let loans for both professional landlords, including those who are looking to have just one or two properties for retirement/income purposes.

Like any borrowing, when you are looking at suitable properties for the Buy To Let marketplace, consideration needs to be given to how much can be borrowed. It is important that the monthly payment to the lender is covered by the expected rental generated from the property in question – and, of course, a plan for how the mortgage is going to be paid back.

At present, Buy to Let mortgages are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (previously known as the Financial Services Authority) with the exception of properties being let to a family member but this may change.The Mortgage Market Review is due to happen in 2014, where EU rules dictate that Buy to Let Mortgages should be regulated.

However, no matter what the outcome, Lenders are bound to ‘Treat Customers Fairly’ as they would with a residential mortgage.

With many potential borrowers struggling to obtain a mortgage and likely to do so for years to come, the Buy to Let market represents a healthy option for those who wish to invest in property either on a large or more moderate basis.

“...the Buy to Let market represents a healthy option for those who wish to invest in property either on a large or more moderate basis.”

There are some excellent deals to be had. Interest rates generally are higher than residential ‘owner occupied’ mortgages and fees can be higher again than residential mortgages, but nevertheless it is a good time to be entering the Buy to Let market, as new lenders are jumping on board with attractive deals aimed at attracting new business.

I would be happy to talk through the specifics of a borrowing plan with you, so that you know what is involved and can assess deals to suit your particular circumstances, when you feel you are ready to go ahead – there are a lot of lenders to choose from!

Some lenders do stipulate that there must be a minimum income in place and like to ensure that, in the case of a tenancy void, borrowers would be able to service the monthly mortgage payment.

Similarly, do seek out an experienced local Letting agent as your next step, for example, Caroline Gee at Harrison James and Hardie (01608 653896). You will be able to glean a lot of useful information about what will rent out best and for how much, before you look for a property and apply for a loan.

Typically a 25% deposit needs to be put down by a borrower but there are some cases where a lesser deposit can be placed depending on the individual lender. Borrowing is dependent on the size of the loan, with the expected rental yield covering the mortgage payment by 125%.

Sue Ellis works alongside Johnny Magee as a Mortgage Broker at Jem Financial Planning. The team has 43 years experience in investment, retirement and inheritance planning, mortgages, protection and general insurance. To speak to Sue or Johnny, telephone 01386 840777 or visit www.johnny-magee.co.uk.

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HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Grand Les Burton

Q

designs

I am utterly confused about changes to the planning system that came into force on 31st May – initially we were very excited because we have a detached farmhouse with various outbuildings that might be converted. As we are nearing retirement age it seemed an ideal time to think about maximising the value of our home before we downsize. Now I have now been told that the changes make no difference to the Cotswolds. Can you elaborate?

A

The changes to the planning system that came into force on 31st May will have an effect on property and what can be achieved without any formal planning application but, as you quite rightly say, it has transpired that these new Permitted Development rights do not generally apply within the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or in any designated Conservation areas. These settlements include the principle towns of Burford, Chipping Norton, Cirencester, Bourton on the Water and Stow on the Wold, for example - so any worries that there would be rampant abuses of the new legislation in this beautiful and historic part of the world have been quickly scotched.

However, there are properties where the changes will be applicable and those who might still benefit from the new rules. People, like you, who are lucky enough to live on a farm in the Cotswolds may be able to take advantage of the relaxation in planning regulations, so don’t give up on the idea. If your farmhouse is unlisted with stone barns with outbuildings that have been used as offices for several years, for example, there are possible changes that you would be allowed to undertake. These changes could include extending your detached farmhouse at the rear up to eight metres but you will have to be quick, as this benefit will only apply for extensions that are built before 30 May 2016.

Meanwhile, other agricultural buildings could well have a range of new business uses – these might be offices, light industrial units or even warehousing. Certainly, the

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most advantageous change with regard to any existing office buildings is the ability to convert into a new dwelling. In such cases as yours, there is no doubt that your existing property could be extended to create a more valuable whole - agricultural buildings could be converted and sold off to small businesses, of course.

Unless you particularly wish to stay in the farmhouse, you might consider moving into the new dwelling as part of a downsizing exercise, selling the main farmhouse instead.

Nonetheless, don’t embark on your grand scheme just yet! It should be noted that some of these new PD Rights are subject to the “prior approval” of the Local Planning Authority. This means that the commencement of a development will be prohibited until either prior approval is granted, or a decision is made that prior approval is not required. Only if a planning authority has not made a decision before the expiry of 56 days following the date on which the LPA received the application, will it lose the right to approve first.

The government clearly hopes that the introduction of a prior approval regime will speed up the planning process, whilst still safeguarding against automatic approval of proposals with potentially severe impacts.

My response to anybody considering building works under the relaxed provision of these new planning guidelines is to take early advice. Find yourself an experienced local architect who is familiar with the North Cotswolds and, once you have drawn up some potential opportunities, make sure you discuss the proposals with planning officers before embarking on any work, accordingly.

Les Burton is a partner in Randell Burton Architects, RIBA Chartered Architects based in the Cotswolds with wide experience in carrying out works to traditional, vernacular and Listed Buildings. For more information visit www.randellburton.co.uk, contact info@randellburton.co.uk or speak directly to Les Burton on 01608 644573.

HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Wise before the event Amanda Malloy

Q A

I’m buying an old property for the first time. What should I be aware of, from a solicitor’s point of view?

Period properties, with their special and unique characters, are very appealing, and in the excitement of buying such a property for the first time it is easy to get carried away with lots of grandiose ideas about how you want it to look and work for you. But stop, for a short while, and consider.

An old property may be listed – if so, there are very specific rules relating to alterations and repairs to listed buildings and you should consult carefully with your local authority conservation officer before planning any work at all – preferably before exchange of contracts. If the property sits within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as is the case for many North Cotswold properties, it is even more than likely that you will need listed building consent, whether the work is to the inside or the outside. Obtaining consent takes time so don’t leave it until the last minute to find out whether your ideas are feasible and to get the relevant paperwork. If you go ahead without consents in place, it is more than likely you could be prosecuted and forced to undertake expensive remedial works.

Don’t buy an old building unless you are prepared to accept its limitations, particular character and needs.

Old buildings have no standardisation - they were built in accordance with the skills and materials available at the time of their construction, relating to their unique environments and original purpose, so doing them up and making alterations can be time-consuming and expensive.

Before you exchange contracts, do get to know the property thoroughly first.

Explore every part of the building from the roof spaces to the cellar. Look in cupboards and under the stairs at anything that might give you a clue as to how it was constructed and even more importantly what kinds of problems you might find. Don’t see a survey as a waste of time, even if you are a cash buyer. A full structural survey may cost several hundred pounds but not to have one can be ruinous. Any money you have should first be invested in any essential repairs to the fabric of the building. The old girl will need decent undergarments before she can be beautifully dressed and so you need to know what you are up against!

Of course, if you are getting a mortgage then lenders will be particularly anxious about structural issues on old buildings, including damp and timber infestation, evidence of movement and large remedial costs. For example, a new Cotswold stone roof will run into thousands to replace.

Retentions are increasingly common, pending satisfactory remedies - so you may need to re-negotiate the purchase price or to have works carried out by the owner in order to satisfy your lender’s requirements and to get the finance you need in place before exchange of contracts can take place.

Lastly, it is wise to use a local solicitor who is familiar with the vernacular of older properties in this area. Many cottages were once part of larger estates, so there are plenty of bizarre and archaic wayleaves, easements, rights of way and oddities like flying freeholds – these are common in this part of the world but should not be overlooked.

Your deeds must be properly investigaged to ensure you have proper access to your property, to discover if anyone else has a right of way over your land and to check that your boundaries tally exactly with Land Registry plans, for example. Sometimes, it is necessary to procure afadavits from neighbours to assert your right to a particular piece of ground or to demonstrate that a right of way has been in regular use for an extended period of time – and in general, buying an older property can take a little longer than buying a new build.

Knowing your own needs, taking into proper account the building’s unique quirks and characteristics and then working with experts are the essentials of owning a period property. But with these properly covered, you should have a very long and happy life together!

Amanda Malloy is based in the Stow office of Kendall & Davies. The company operates four offices across the North Cotswolds, offering high quality legal services in all areas of law including property, business and family matters.

A long established group of general legal practitioners harnessing a wealth of expertise to deliver a high level of client care and satisfaction. To contact Amanda, phone 01451 830295 or e-mail stow@kendallanddavies.co.uk.

For further information, visit www.kendallanddavies.co.uk

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Celebrity Cricket

Pound House, Little Rissington

£450,000

3 Oakeys Close Stow on the Wold

£399,950

A semi-detached property with self-contained detached one bedroom annexe, ideal for extra family accommodation or a business opportunity such as Bed & Breakfast or holiday let.

Entrance hall | Cloakroom | Utility | Kitchen/dining room with bi-fold doors to the decked area | Sitting room with woodburning stove Three first floor bedrooms and bathroom | Second floor master bedroom with ensuite | Off road parking for several cars and gardens.

Annexe accommodation. EPC Ratings: D and E

A four/five bedroom property located in an exclusive development within walking distance of the market square.

Entrance hall | Cloakroom | Kitchen/breakfast room | Sitting room Conservatory | Master bedroom with ensuite | Bedroom/reception room | Bedroom and bathroom on the first floor | Two bedrooms on the second floor | Garden to the rear | Garage and off road parking.

EPC Rating: D

Harrison James & Hardie, Bourton on the Water 01451 822 977

Harrison James & Hardie, Bourton on the Water 01451 822 977

6 Crail View, Northleach,

£325,000

1 Rectory Cottages, Lower Swell

£329,500

An immaculately presented four bedroom detached property situated in a quiet cul de sac location on the edge of Northleach, enjoying rooftop countryside views.

Entrance hall | Cloakroom | Sitting room | Dining room | Refitted kitchen | Utility | Conservatory | Four bedrooms (master with ensuite) Family bathroom | Garage | Driveway and gardens to front and rear.

No Onward Chain. EPC Rating: D

A delightful Cotswold stone cottage situated in the heart of the desirable village of Lower Swell, enjoying a private rear garden, carport and garage.

Entrance hall with Chinese slate flooring | Cloakroom | Kitchen, Sitting room/dining room with log burning stove | Conservatory | Three bedrooms | Family bathroom | Private garden | Carport and garage.

EPC Rating: D

Harrison James & Hardie, Bourton on the Water 01451 822 977

Harrison James & Hardie, Bourton on the Water 01451 822 977

harrisonjameshardie.co.uk

Bourton on the Water | Moreton in Marsh | Mayfair | Lettings

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Celebrity Cricket

Hill Top View, Stourton

£395,000

2 Lowlands Farm, Chadlington

£379,950

An attractive detached property situated in the centre of its generous plot, requiring modernisation and with scope to extend (subject to the necessary consents) Entrance hall | Sitting room | Dining room | Kitchen | Rear porch | Bedroom | Bathroom | 2 further first floor bedrooms | Two attic rooms with potential to convert (subject to the necessary consents) | W.C Garage | Generously proportioned garden and parking. EPC rating: E

A Cotswold Stone barn, beautifully converted to retain an abundance of character and charm. Kitchen open to dining room with vaulted ceiling, 2 mezzanine floors currently used as study and a den Sitting room | Master bedroom with ensuite shower room | 3 further bedrooms | Bathroom | Parking and garden. EPC rating: D

Harrison James & Hardie, Moreton in Marsh 01608 651 000

Harrison James & Hardie, Moreton in Marsh 01608 651 000

1 Holly Bank, Longborough

£375,000

1 Field View, Draycott

£325,000

An attractive stone built cottage situated in an elevated position and benefitting from beautiful views of the picturesque High Street and surrounding countryside.

Sitting room | Dining hall | Kitchen | Bedroom 3 with en-suite shower room | 2 further bedrooms | Bathroom | Garden. EPC rating: F

A Cotswold stone period cottage that has been rewired and carefully refurbished to retain much of its original character, offered with no onward chain.

Sitting room with recently fitted wood burner | Newly fitted kitchen/ breakfast room | Four bedrooms | Bathroom | Garden and parking.

EPC rating: D

Harrison James & Hardie, Moreton in Marsh 01608 651 000

Harrison James & Hardie, Moreton in Marsh 01608 651 000

view all our properties at harrisonjameshardie.co.uk www.cotswold-homes.com

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The Old Roost, Cold Aston

The

Old Roost Cold Aston

Cold Aston is one of a handful of “golden postcodes” - a picturesque, peaceful hamlet of traditional stone cottages arranged around an ancient village green, in the midst of beautiful, undulating countryside – the epitome of the North Cotswold rural idyll desired by so many people as the ultimate in country life.

At its heart sits a renowned primary school and a great gastro pub, unarguably two of life’s necessities for a great family and social life, with Northleach, Stow on the Wold and Bourton on the Water providing excellent day-to-day shopping, and the larger centres of Cirencester and Cheltenham accessible within half an hour’s drive.

The Old Roost sits on the edge of this exceptional and tranquil village, in an outstanding location that enjoys spectacular views of the countryside. “I grew up in the village,” says William Mustoe, a respected and experienced local builder. “I have always had a great affinity with this place. My wife and I enjoyed living abroad for three years but on our return, in the early 80s, we could think of nowhere better to settle our family than here.”

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“We were so lucky because my husband already knew of a piece of land,” explains Barbara Mustoe.

“When we heard that the farmer who owned it was thinking of selling, we jumped at the chance to buy it. Between the two of us, we then had the ultimate luxury of being able to design and build our own home.”

Thus the arrangement of accommodation in The Old Roost was conceived specifically with modern family living in mind, around free-flowing, sociable living spaces. From the kitchen-breakfast room leading through to the dining room, and the lounge to the study, each principal reception room is joined together by a grand conservatory that runs along the breadth of the house, enjoying panoramic views and ensuring that every living space is utilised on a day-to-day basis.

“We had previously lived in Australia,” says William, “where the properties are usually open plan, and that was the inspiration for the way we designed The Old Roost whilst still remaining sympathetic to the traditional style of build in the North Cotswolds. It is a perfect arrangement for everyday family life and it’s also incredibly conducive to entertaining, which we tend to do quite a lot!”

“We spend so much of our life in the kitchen,” confirms Barbara, “the natural hub of our home, where we all like to sit and chat whilst we cook. It’s a great, functional, comfortable and informal space to gather around as an extended family, especially looking out on such views.”

When designing the house, the delightful aspect provided by the setting was of paramount

The Old Roost, Cold Aston

importance and so every single room is blessed with a splendid outlook. The Old Roost sits in just under three acres, some laid out as formal gardens - beyond are a paddock and a pond and then, just countryside. “In warmer months we throw open the conservatory doors to sit on the terrace, soaking up the sun, from where we have uninterrupted views that are truly outstanding, and one of the main reasons we were so keen to buy this piece of land. I often wake up early in the morning simply to photograph the sun rising, as it’s really something else! Our children, and now the grandchildren, love the luxury of such extensive grounds to play in, too. It’s great for sledging in the winter, running around and ball games in the summer, and the grandchildren’s best treat is to ride up and down the field in the tractor with granddad.”

“It’s such a peaceful space,” adds William, “where we could just sit for hour upon hour, soaking in our surroundings – the landscape, the quality of the light, the skies, everything changes with the seasons – like looking out on a living painting.”

But of course, the location is so much more than simply a view and Cold Aston is also as much loved a place as the house itself. “It’s a typical Cotswold village, where people really get to know each other - a thriving pub, an active church, a community hall and a lovely school are just some of the benefits that make it so desirable. We have historic towns and pretty villages all within very easy reach and we are just four miles from the A40, so it’s perfect for commuting into London.

At the end of a hard day in the big smoke, I doubt there could be a better antidote to city life.”

After thirty years they have reluctantly made a decision to move to a larger centre with amenities, perhaps Bourton on the Water. “Not too far, as we will miss the village and The Old Roost terribly,” says Barbara. “We have put our hearts and souls into this magical family home. We know we will lose our perfect outlook and the absolute tranquillity, but not all the friends we have made and our memories. It has been simply fabulous.”

The Old Roost is offered for sale at £1.25 million through the offices of Harrison James and Hardie Fine & Country at Bourton on the Water.

To arrange an appointment to view, contact James von Speyr on 01451 822977 or to download full particulars, simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com

www.cotswold-homes.com

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HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Structurally Sound Robert Hamilton

Q A

We are buying a Listed cottage in the Cotswolds and we are getting increasingly worried about the roof! It looks very shabby, being covered with mossy growth and having a distinct dent on one side. Does it need re-roofing and what can be done simply to repair it, to minimise what we imagine are quite large costs?

The North Cotswolds is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - distinctive roof coverings are one of the most attractive features. Natural Cotswold stone slates, known as ‘tiles’, are laid in diminishing, graduated courses with the largest at the eaves and the smallest at the ridge. Various sizes and shapes of tiles have local dialect names such as ‘cussoms’ (largest tiles) and ‘short cocks’ (smallest tiles). Before gutters were used, the overhang of the cussoms was ideal for throwing water clear from the building, as with thatched roofs that have no gutters at all.

weakened by woodworm, or a split timber truss, rafters or battens.

A surveyor will need to gain access to the underside where the sag is found, possibly by making an opening in the ceiling of the room beneath. This will, of course, require the consent of the present owner. If it does need to be re-roofed, the first indication will be falling away of the original lime plaster torching on the underneath of the slates, used to secure the pegs to the battens.

Torching reduces wind and rain entry and provides insulation. An experienced surveyor will count the area or proportion of the torching that has fallen away to gauge life expectancy. Assuming an original expectation of a hundred years from the date of construction, the loss of 30% of the torching, for example, indicates that you have 10-20 years of life left in the roof. However, many of the stone slates may be reused over new insulation felt, treated

“Limestone is a fairly robust stone but can tend to become weathered and laminate under the action of rain and frost. Overhanging trees will also add to the issues, causing shading and wet conditions to prevail and encouraging moss to grow” As your intended purchase is Listed, you have to preserve the stone roof. Occasionally, the Heritage Officer may permit use of an imitation stone for you to salvage sound slates from the hidden slopes, replacing them with imitation ones to preserve the correct appearance. Sadly, there are no longer grants available except if it is Grade I Listed.

Limestone is a fairly robust stone but can tend to become weathered and laminate under the action of rain and frost.

Overhanging trees will also add to the issues, causing shading and wet conditions to prevail and encouraging moss to grow. Judicious tree curtailment and physical removal of moss - carefully scraping it off, or spraying it with a moss killer – will be necessary. Fixing copper wires or tape along each side of the ridge will cause natural mineral salts, discouraging the growth of more moss without damaging the flowering lichen that helps to bind the stone and reduce risk of movement under extreme windy conditions.

The underneath of the roof is also of great importance. The dipping you mention could be the result of natural shrinkage and twisting of wooden purlin beams, or it could be indicative of roof trusses

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battens and hung with alloy or galvanised steel pegs. This has been the recommended method for the last 40 years.

So, if the underside of the roof is lined with black bituminous material somebody has already re-roofed it and it should have another hundred years’ life expectancy from the date of the reroofing. I always advise clients to ask their solicitor to verify the history of previous sales prior to registration of title. This may help to identify who re-roofed it and when, as these works tend to be done as a result of a previous sale. Even so, you should make sure you get the roof inspected by an experienced builder or surveyor with an assessment of condition and likely costs before you exchange as repairs can run into thousands of pounds, as you say.

Central Surveying has offices in the Cotswolds and Knightsbridge, specialising in independent professional surveying and property consultancy services for commercial and residential clients in the Cotswolds, South West and London. Robert Hamilton works from Naunton in the heart of the North Cotswolds. To contact Robert, telephone 07769 173233 or visit the www.centralsurveying.co.uk.

HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Andy Soye

Mat Faraday

Holiday Letting Large Homes

in the Cotswolds

Q A

I own a large, seven bedroomed, character property in the Cotswolds, which I no longer live in. I would like to keep the house as a long term investment and to use it occasionally, but I would also like to earn a regular income from it. Holiday letting seems the perfect solution, however, my concern is that big properties like mine won’t attract enough bookings. What advice can you give me about the market for large properties and are there any important factors that I should take into account?

The good news is that large Cotswold properties, especially the older ones, full of traditional character, do exceptionally well as holiday lets! In order to understand why, a good place to start is by looking at the history behind the area….

The Cotswolds has a long and proud history of working with wool, silk and other raw materials. As a result, many of the cottages in the area were built for the farm labourers and factory workers, and are quite small, typically with one or

on-the-Water, for example, sells its Christmas week for £5,327, which, when spread over 20 people for seven nights, works out at only £38 per person, per night. Because holiday cottages are self-catering, guests make significant further savings on food and drink costs, whilst still being able to get outside caterers in, as required.

An interesting attribute of the demand for big Cotswold cottages is that, being event driven, it is less impacted by seasonality than the demand for smaller cottages, which is often driven by school holidays or short term factors, such as the weather. If Grandma’s 70th birthday happens to be in January, then that’s when the group will want to book their cottage, regardless of the fact that this is traditionally a quieter month for holiday letting. This means large properties can command strong prices throughout the year.

When you combine the limited supply of properties with the strong and constant demand, our experience has been

“Conversely, the demand for large holiday lets in the Cotswolds is very high, due to the area’s geographical location in the heart of England.” two bedrooms. Larger properties, with multiple bedrooms, are less common and, consequently, this creates a restricted supply of big cottages for the holiday letting market.

Conversely, the demand for large holiday lets in the Cotswolds is very high, due to the area’s geographical location in the heart of England. This makes it the perfect location for large groups of people who want to get together to celebrate an event, such as a 50th birthday party, a family gathering, or a university reunion. Hotels often don’t appeal to such large groups, as they sometimes lack the communal feel and can often work out to be too expensive.

Large holiday cottages are the perfect solution for many groups, with the living and dining areas allowing everyone to socially gather together, enough room for everyone to stay under the same roof and, often, space for children or other guests to relax away from the main party. Despite what can sometimes seem a high headline price, renting a large property can often work out surprisingly cost effective on a per person basis. Halford House in the heart of Bourton-

that large holiday cottages perform exceptionally well in the Cotswolds and often outperform smaller cottages in terms of revenue and profit per guest. For example, we have successfully generated approximately £90,000 per annum of gross income, from over 55 bookings, for a beautiful, detached, six bedroomed property in the North Cotswolds.

At Character Cottages we are very experienced at marketing and maximising the returns on large properties.

We can offer owners a wide and detailed range of support and advice on many key holiday letting factors, including furnishing, pricing, occupancy, security deposits and overall property management. To find out what your large cottage can do for you, just get in touch with us!

Andy Soye and Mat Faraday are co-founders and owners of Character Cottages, an independent company specialising in the holiday letting of luxury properties in the Cotswolds. To find out more about their services contact them on: owners@character-cottages.com or telephone 08456 80 80 29

www.cotswold-homes.com

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HALFORD HOUSE, BOURTON ON THE WATER

HALFORD HOUSE Bourton on the Water When it was first built, the imposing sight of Halford House, one of the grandest residences in the village of Bourton on the Water enjoying a prime position just off the high street, would no doubt have been a highly visible symbol of the first owner’s wealth.

Over the last century or so the stables, outbuildings and land have inevitably been sold off and now it is more modestly hidden from view behind high stone walls, in grounds of approximately a quarter of an acre. Still, it remains 48

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one of the largest historic properties in the village, although as the years rolled by it had begun to suffer from benign neglect and lack of proper investment into its several thousand square feet of living space. When it was bought a couple of years ago by Elaine and Martyn Booth, proprietors of the famous Dial House Hotel in the same village, it was in need of considerable work and a very tempting project for such experienced hoteliers.

The Booths fully intended it as a sister hotel for the family market, and to this end it was

comprehensively restored and upgraded in a very short space of time, to provide luxurious bedroom suites as well as gorgeous living spaces, with less visible but equally essential improvements to the plumbing, heating, electrics and the general fabric of the property. However, just as Elaine and Martyn were about to begin marketing their new acquisition as a luxury Bed and Breakfast, the iconic Grape Vine Hotel in Stow on the Wold came up for sale and they were smitten. They knew that if they bought another hotel to add to their portfolio, demands on their time would escalate

HALFORD HOUSE, BOURTON ON THE WATER

beyond reason. It seemed the only way forward was to sell Halford House, however reluctantly.

Karen Harrison, originally the appointed agent in the sale of Halford House, had other ideas.

She suggested instead that they talked to Andy Soye and Mat Faraday of Character Cottages to consider whether it would be better suited to a holiday let rather than offering it back to the market so soon after the restoration. Her suggestion turned out to be a serendipitous introduction that has benefitted the Booths – who were then happily able to embark on the purchase and restoration of the Grape Vine Hotel as they wished – and equally Character Cottages, too, by proving a very successful holiday let, indeed.

the house with its fabulously finished bedrooms and stylish bathrooms, where it was obvious that we would be able easily to sleep up to twenty people, suiting a wide range of potential holidaymakers. From the outset, we knew that as long as we put in place the right sort of marketing and the correct price points, we could generate a really significant amount of revenue for Elaine and Martyn, originally predicting around £80,000 to £90,000 per annum.

Andy Soye, of Character Cottages, remembers clearly the first time he saw the property and how he felt, knowing he had been introduced to something remarkable, that was likely to become a great money-spinner for his clients.

“Having taken nearly sixty bookings in the last year or so, we have been able to revise that figure significantly upwards. Over that time, we have continued to fine-tune and re-focus our marketing, working on what we have discovered to determine the optimal price ranges with the changing seasons in order to maximise overall revenue. Based on the delivered results to date alone, we are now confident that we could generate around £120,000 per annum of gross revenue.

“Halford House is a beautiful, large, country home in a famous Cotswold village, presented to a very high standard, making it ideal for holiday letting.

When I first saw it, I liked best the sheer size of

“If the current staff quarters were also converted into two further ground floor bedrooms (ideal for grandparents, for example, with doors opening onto the garden), and so long as the

existing living space was deemed big enough for parties of up to twenty-four guests, the gross revenue could easily become £140,000 per annum. Given you could add on a generous conservatory without compromising the garden, doing so would thereby increase living space for relatively little initial spend, the cost of which would soon be recovered by the additional income the changes would generate.

“Without a doubt, as it stands Halford House is one of the most successful properties that we have on our books and it continues to attract enormous interest. It’s a wonderful investment opportunity, profiting from a fantastic central location within the most sought-after local holiday destination and, equally, from the rise in the domestic holiday let market generally over the last few years in the North Cotswolds.”

Elaine and Martyn Booth have recently finished a similarly stunning transformation of the Grape Vine Hotel. Despite the lure of the fabulous income provided by Halford House, they know that their energies and time must be spent on their main business as hoteliers on their newest project and so, at a much better time for them, they are now finally going to sell.

Karen Harrison says: “As an on-going investment opportunity with bookings still coming in thick and fast, Halford House represents a demonstrably valuable investment for someone seeking high returns for comparatively little effort, beyond housekeeping and general maintenance. However, all that being said, it could just as easily become a wonderful home for a multi-generational family, simply by returning some of the bedrooms into the original living accommodation. With all the amenities and benefits of life in one of the most renowned villages in the North Cotswolds, Halford House is bound to attract a wide range of potential purchasers, no matter for what purpose.”

Halford House is offered for sale at £1.1 million. To view, strictly by prior arrangement only, please contact Karen Harrison at the Bourton on the Water office of Harrison James & Hardie, Fine & Country, on 01451 822977, or to download full particulars and a floor plan simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com.

www.cotswold-homes.com

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The Theatre Chipping Norton

Introducing Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me The Theatre Chipping Norton prepares to plunge you straight into the heart of a distant cell in their bold new drama…

An Englishman, an Irishman and an American are taken hostage in Lebanon, incarcerated in a tiny cell. No, it’s not the start of a terrible joke, but rather the intriguing premise of Frank McGuiness’ early nineties play, Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me, the latest in Theatre Chipping Norton’s inspired series of in-house productions.

sanity and sometimes even mortal enemies.

‘That McGuiness actually used ‘An Englishman, An Irishman and an American’ as a working title should suggest a little bit about the nature of the play,’ says director Caroline Leslie. ‘It’s one I’ve wanted to do for years and years.

‘McGuiness has really honoured the relationships of those who’ve been hostages and his play really does

Caroline’s recent work has included a five-star tour of Noel Gay’s wartime wireless comedy Radio Times and flapper girl-era musical Thoroughly Modern Millie. Now at the helm of Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me, she has been given a chance to tackle a rather different subject – something that has fascinated her since she was a teenager.

‘I was 16 when I first heard a radio extract from Brian Keenan’s book An Evil Cradling, the story of his experiences after being taken hostage with journalist John McCarthy,’ she says, ‘and it blew my 16 year old mind. What really struck me was that he described his terrible experience as a love story...It was the way this situation made two men best friends, caretakers of each other’s

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‘So I ended up fascinated with the politics involved too and by the time I was 18 I had pretty much become an expert. After I settled in theatre I then came across McGuiness’ play. I’ve waited about 15 years to have this chance to do it.

Building the set on The Glass Menagerie

have everything. And, amongst other things, it’s incredibly witty and funny.’

“For the audience it’s fascinating to imagine: what would they be like in a hostage situation?

Would they go crazy? In some cases, might they even be happier?”

The three prisoners are Edward, an Irish war correspondent; Englishman Michael, middle aged widower and lecturer in Old English; and Californian child psychologist Adam. It’s an obvious recipe for nationalistic discontent, but from the enforced intimacy of their captivity companionship and humanity emerges.

‘Adam is the first hostage taken. Soon to be married, he is a man for whom mental and physical discipline are the keys to his survival,’ says Caroline. ‘He is joined in the cell after two months

by Edward, an Irish journalist. Edward believes that brutal humour and straight talking are the only defence against their captors and circumstances.

Fortunately, Adam has a dark and subversive humour of his own, perhaps rarely seen, which appeals to the Irishman.

The Theatre Chipping Norton

‘A deep friendship and a real camaraderie blossoms between the unlikely companions.The dynamics become explosive when the two men are joined by a third captive, Michael: a man who had come to Beirut to take up a university post lecturing in Old English, and who is a self-confessed pear flan enthusiast!’

Locked away together, the three devise little games and stratagems to maintain their sanity – at one point even creating their own Wimbledon. With the trio’s captors remaining unseen, the audience becomes a fly on the cell wall – and The Theatre has devised a way of putting you right at the heart of their strange ordeal.

‘With each of our in-house shows, we aim to find something that gives the audience a real richness of experience,’ says John Terry, director of the theatre’s previous two productions. ‘The intimacy offered Frankie and Johnny, for instance, or the musical elements we included in The Glass Menagerie.This play is an interesting choice, not least because we’re staging it in the rounds – it’ll be a truly intense and dramatic performance.’

The Glass Menagerie (Photo: Ric Mellis)

Frankie and Johnny in the Clair de Lune (Photo: Geraint Lewis)

“The Theatre building itself – charmingly converted from an old Salvation Army hall – is perhaps the perfect venue for stories which are smaller in scale yet represent a vast and complex range of themes and emotions.”

What will staging it in the rounds actually entail?

‘Basically we’re pulling our theatre apart and tilting it back,’ he laughs. ‘The performance will take part in the middle, where the stalls usually are…it means the audience will be incredibly close to the action.

They’ll really be able to feel it.

‘I’ve loved Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me for a number of years. It’s an incredibly vivacious piece.

Despite the situation these three characters are in, it manages to be funny and light. It’s more about humanity than it is about politics – it’s about the people on the sharp end of politics, whether that means the protestors in Turkey or hostages like Terry Waite, who was held in solitary confinement for four years.

Someone Who’ll Watch Over Me follows on the heels of the critically acclaimed Frankie and Johnny in the Claire de Lune and The Glass Menagerie, both of which have amply demonstrated that Chipping Norton has the chops to stage ambitious yet intimate visions of its own.The Theatre building itself – charmingly converted from an old Salvation Army hall – is perhaps the perfect venue for stories which are smaller in scale yet represent a vast and complex range of themes and emotions.

We await the fate of these unlikely captives with keen interest…

The Glass Menagerie (Photo: Ric Mellis)

SOMEONE WHO'LL WATCH OVER ME Performance dates: 19th -21st & 23rd - 28th September, 7.45pm. Saturday matinee: Saturday 28th September, 3pm.

Adults £14, Concessions £12, Schools £8.50 Please visit www.chippingnortontheatre.com for booking and further details or call the Box Office on: 01608 642350

www.cotswold-homes.com

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Jane Austen and CS Lewis

This year, local festivals celebrate two authors who gave us some of the most beloved (and bestselling) literature of all time: Jane Austen and CS Lewis.

It’s getting to that time of year when the literati make their annual pilgrimage to Cheltenham for the esteemed Times Literature Festival.

But if book lovers are willing to venture a little further afield they’ll find festivals celebrating two of the UK’s most influential and beloved authors, Jane Austen and C.S. Lewis, on the occasion of some very significant anniversaries indeed.

‘It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.’ It’s hard to believe, but the immortal opening words of Austen’s Pride and Prejudice are now 200 years old.The novel to which they belong has sold around 20 million copies worldwide, seeded countless tributary romances and adaptations and enjoyed a startlingly diverse readership.

“Pride and Prejudice is the matrix on which all Harlequin romances are built,” said Germaine Greer, who re-reads the book every five years. “It's the best-selling plot-line in literature.”

Where better to celebrate this landmark occasion than in picturesque Bath, where Austen lived for years? Every year the Jane Austen Centre runs a festival for enthusiasts to come together and celebrate the author’s enduring works – and this year’s proceedings really will be something to be proud of.

‘In June we hosted our own version of the Netherfield ball,’ says Festival Director Jacqui Herring.

‘And from the 13th to the 21st of September, we’ve got 83 events planned especially to celebrate Pride and Prejudice, ranging from fashion and theatrical 78

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Jane Austen and CS Lewis

shows to public readings in the library, walking tours and food events.’

Festival Assistant Jody Hollis find it difficult to explain the complicated alchemy of the book’s undying appeal. ‘There are too many reasons for liking it. It just…captures the imagination. For many it’s the romance, of course, or the manners, or the times.

For some it’s just the costumes or pure escapism. It’s all good, historic fun…it’s just lovely.’

Pride and Prejudice was originally written under the working title of First Impressions when Austen was between the ages of twenty and twenty-one.

The copyright was eventually sold by Austen to publisher Thomas Egerton for £110 before it was published under its now famous title in 1813 (the copyright purchase allowing the publisher to profit considerably when the first edition sold out).

It’s strange to conceive of today but after her death at the age of 41, Austen was widely forgotten by the public. Her nephew revived interest in her with an 1869 biography establishing her as a cosy and proper ‘dear Aunt Jane’, causing the novels to be reissued and a new following to emerge. In the years that followed a small (and mostly male) literary elite tended the flame of her reputation.

It was only in the 20th century that Austen-mania truly exploded. First becoming an object of serious academic study, the advent of film and televised drama made Austen a sensation.The passion of Austen’s modern fandom will be witnessed fullflame in Bath this September.

Meanwhile, over Oxford-ways, a Jubilee festival will celebrate the life of CS Lewis, author of the Chronicles of Narnia series. Marking the 50th anniversary of Lewis’ death, the festival will be concentrated around the Holy Trinity church in Headington Quarry where the author, scholar and professor worshipped for around thirty years of his life.

As of Fellow and Tutor in English Literature at Oxford University’s Magdalen College, Lewis became great friends with JRR Tolkien, author of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings.The two became founding members of an informal society of literary friends called the Inklings, who would often meet in the pub for drinks and discussion.

Lewis’ faith characterised his life as a writer. Raised as a Christian, he became an atheist at age 15 and remained so until into adulthood when he eventually (and apparently reluctantly) reconverted, overwhelmed by the case for God’s existence.

He worked playful and imaginative allegories into his works - many of which have been left overshadowed by the immense success of the Narnia saga.

It may surprise Narnia-lovers that before embarking on the Chronicles, Lewis dipped toe in the fantastical pool of science fiction, inspired by the great HG Wells to create his own adventures. His ‘Space Trilogy’ – a sci-fi adventure featuring a Cambridge don travelling to Mars and Venus – explored issues of belief in an age of rampant technological progress.

“Where better to celebrate this landmark occasion than in picturesque Bath, where Austen lived for years?”

He saw faith as the means of tempering mankind’s colonialist impulses, keeping morals in check while science advanced at a dizzying clip.

Also popular were The Screwtape Letters, first serialized in The Guardian in 1941. In them, senior devil Screwtape writes to a junior tempter in ‘his Satanic Majesty’s Lowerachy’, his nephew Wormwood, on how to corrupt a person to obtain their soul. Lewis’ light and whimsical touch when dealing with hefty theological matters earned him the fondness of a global audience. He died on November 22, 1963, on the same day that Kennedy was assassinated and Aldous Huxley passed away.

Austen and Lewis are two very different writers, but their lives bear certain similarities: they were both fiercely imaginative children, their early creative efforts hinting at their destinies. Lewis and his brother created Boxen, an imaginary world ruled by animals (an obvious prototype for Narnia) while a fifteen-year-old Austen penned a satirical work of English history (‘by a partial, prejudiced & ignorant Historian’) illustrated by her beloved sister Cassandra.

We do know that Lewis admired Austen, and wrote clever and scholarly things about her. ‘Principles are essential to Jane Austen’s art. [They] might be described as the grammar of conduct. Now grammar is something that anyone can learn; it is also something that everyone must learn.’

With both writers inspiring countless clubs and societies worldwide and modern media reincarnating their stories again and again, their stars are unlikely to fade anytime soon.

For more information on the CS Lewis Jubilee Festival, please visit: http://www.cslewisjubileefestival.org/ For more information on the Jane Austen Festival, please visit: http://www.janeausten.co.uk/festivalhome/ For more information on the Cheltenham Literature Festival, please visit: www.cheltenhamfestivals.com www.cotswold-homes.com

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Tina and Steve Brassington are delighted to announce the opening of another Box of Delights, a fabulously pretty shop in a four hundred year old building in Henley Street in Stratford Upon Avon, located only a few steps away from Shakespeare's Birthplace.

Their timely decision to expand with a second shop follows on from the hugely successful original Box of Delights in Bourton on the Water, where locals and visitors alike have been delighted to discover a reliably wide choice of high quality gifts, home ware, cards and accessories at sensible prices, the first stop locally for children's birthdays and grown-up treats.

For children, the quirky and instantly recognisable Tyrell Katz products and the gorgeous Belle & Boo range have proved enormously popular, whilst famous designs by Orla Kiely and Sophie Allport, and a choice of pretty jewellery and accessories, are equally sought-after by yummy mummies.

Indeed, there's a host of affordable luxuries - after all, everyone needs a well-deserved treat for good behaviour, whether or not it's a special occasion!

Box of Delights in Stratford Upon Avon is bigger, too, so Tina and Steve have been able to offer a wider range of suppliers and additional brands, 80

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including beautiful Bomb Cosmetics and Gorjuss, DCUK,The Old Bag Company and Rachel Ellen.

To celebrate the opening,Tina and Steve are also offering a special 10% discount for Cotswold Homes Privilege Card holders. See you there soon!

Contact details 54 Henley Street, Stratford upon Avon, Warks, CV37 6PT Tel: 01789 415302 Email: enquiries@boxofdelights.biz

“Their timely decision to expand with a second shop follows on from the hugely successful original Box of Delights in Bourton on the Water ...�

Lord of the Ring

Lord the Ring of

We met with conductor Anthony Negus and his artist friend Caroline Green right in the middle of Longborough Festival Opera’s critically acclaimed Ring cycle.

The Independent called him the ‘source of magic fire’ and a ‘secret weapon’: Anthony Negus is a man who can command the explosive passions of gods and mortals with a flick of his baton.

This summer he has the weight of Valhalla on his shoulders, as he is responsible for conducting three entire cycles of Wagner’s Ring at the Longborough Festival Opera.

Yet, sipping tea and nibbling fruitcake in a sunny Ganborough garden – just a day before he is due to conduct Siegfried for an audience that will include the Duke of Kent – Anthony and his wife Carmen seem relaxed. The couple have been joined by local artist and good friend Caroline Green, who herself has been hard at work on a portrait of Anthony and various orchestra studies.

2013 has seen the realisation of Longborough Festival Opera director Martin Graham’s impossible dream: to host the entirety of Wagner’s Ring cycle within their own opera house, created just a few years ago from a barn conversion.

It has no doubt been a gruelling, elating, teethgnashing pilgrimage down a road strewn with the carcasses of the failed attempts of others to create a British Bayreuth. But, with Anthony watching over the pit, it seems something incredible has been achieved. The reviews for the cycle have been excellent, and Longborough is definitely on the map.

‘There’s now a sense of culmination and fruition,’ he says, ‘as well as the sense of things being possible. Over the course of my career, I’ve worked with and assisted all kinds of distinguished people, but at Longborough it’s felt, for the first time, like I’m actually being me. I’m not imitating other people.’

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The question for Longborough now is: how do you follow up something as dramatic and as extravagant as staging the full Ring cycle?

His CV certainly impresses. After being introduced to Wagner by his parents at a young age, he managed to smuggle himself into the covered pit at the Bayreuth to see the orchestra at work (so designed because Wagner didn’t want the motions of a conductor to distract from the drama onstage). There were also some fortuitous exchange trips with the family of a German boy who lived in Bayreuth. ‘I stayed there so long. I should have offered money. I never did.’

Thereafter he studied at the Royal College of

Music, the London Opera Centre and Christ Church College, Oxford. In 1972 he actually became musical assistant at the Bayreuth, and from 1976 to 2011 was on the Music Staff of the Welsh National Opera. His involvement with Longborough goes back to 2000, with preparations for Wagner’s bicentenary year occurring in 2007 with the staging of Das Rheingold.

What is it about Wagner that encourages such devotion? ‘It’s the depth and the feeling you’ll

Lord of the Ring

never get to the end of it. You find new aspects to it all the time. As a conductor, it’s never-ending work and it requires great stylistic understanding.

The tricky things are the transitions. You’ve got to prepare for what’s coming up in the right way.

You live in the moment but you need to see the longer view. The thing for me to remember is not to drown the singers!’

The Cotswolds has always been an ambitious place to host Wagner’s mythic epic. Modelled on Norse myth, the Ring cycle saga includes gods, giants, dragons, evil dwarves, magic swords and a cursed ring of power. It climaxes in Götterdämmerung, the Twilight of the Gods, the instalment in which Valhalla and the gods themselves are immolated. Naturally, the scale and volume of this tragic apocalypse can cause problems when you’re rehearsing in a place like Blockley village hall. ‘It got very loud in there, probably too loud for everyone. But saying that, the funeral march at Blockley was maybe the best it has ever been.’

She sees certain similarities between conducting and painting. ‘In painting, too, there are absences and suggestions.’ We discuss the long silence that followed the final sustained chord of the first cycle – just before the audience erupted into a standing ovation.

The question for Longborough now is: how do you follow up something as dramatic and as extravagant as staging the full Ring cycle?

In the long term, Martin Graham is looking at the survival of his opera house, ensuring that it doesn’t ‘die with us’ but continues ever on. As for Anthony, now he’s done a Ring with a partially reduced orchestra, he ‘of course now wants to attempt it with a full one.’ A 2015 version of

Tristan und Isolde is his next challenge at Longborough.

But like Martin, he too has a ‘great dream’. What he really wants to do, he says, ‘is to make a film.

I’d love to make a film of the Ring, but to find a director who really understands it. It really is just so filmic.’ Now that the Longborough endeavour has shown that perhaps anything is possible - why not?

Visit Anthony’s website here: www.anthonynegus.co.uk Visit Caroline’s website here: www.carolinehgreen.com Caroline is available for commissions.

Having been involved with Longborough for thirteen years, Anthony has become something of a familiar face. ‘I know quite a few members of the community now. I’m a sociable sort. At least, they don’t seem to resent my presence.’ Caroline remembers their meeting fondly. ‘I was Artist in Residence at Longborough for two years,’ she says, ‘making pictures of the orchestra and selling them. Anthony had seen some of my work and we became quite good friends.

‘He is so approachable and unassuming, yet a real workaholic and a perfectionist. There is real affection for him in the orchestra. What I’m most interested in as an artist is perhaps concentrating on the movement of his very sensitive hands.’ www.cotswold-homes.com

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Celia Lendis

Art’s Way Forward: Classic Craftsmanship and

Contemporary Thinking

My husband and I have just returned to our home in Kent after a week’s holiday in the Cotswolds. We were surprised at how many art galleries and antique shops we found and how contemporary some of the artwork is, and felt more excited by what we found in this region than we have felt about London galleries for some time. Where do you see the art market heading at the moment - is London losing its kudos?

There is a wonderful sense of freedom and excitement in the authenticity demanded by the new transparency of the market. It means there is nowhere for a gallery to hide.The artwork, the artist’s reputation, the price, the dealer’s knowledge and their need to work on behalf of buyers so that their clients don’t end up owning a ‘pup’ are all emphasised.The artwork being bought or sold must be absolutely of the highest quality and turn out (over time if sold as a good investment) to be “what it says on the box”!

Another effect of the worldwide web on the current art market is the separation of quality and value from geography. It is now very possible to find great art anywhere in the country, not just in Mayfair or central London.

Regional galleries are seeing exciting new artists emerge into the investment arena as the market gets tougher whilst London becomes more expensive and devoted exclusively to ‘powerhouse’ names, in terms of both galleries and artists. Regional doesn’t mean parochial anymore - many Cotswold

I don’t think London is losing its kudos but it is no longer the only place to find wonderful art.

In that sense, you are absolutely right - there is an excitement about art in the Cotswolds at the moment that is really palpable. In the last few years, I know of more than seven new contemporary art galleries that have opened in the North Cotswolds alone. There is a definite shift towards a new kind of art… but also to a new kind of art dealing.

With the transparency of the internet and publication of global auction records, the old days of dealers buying at auction and then commanding a fairly hefty commission in the gallery, with fairly opaque pricing methods, are pretty much over for good. It’s a little sad, since the kind of smoky back-room art deals, made over a glass (or three) of red wine or a long lazy lunch, are the art gallery memories of my own youth and one of the main sources of excitement that led me to open my own gallery. It is often remarked that dealing in art is the most fun you can have with your clothes on (although it has also been noted that the activity does not necessarily require clothing)!

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~Calum McClure (2012), Pond, Cammo, oil on board, 122cm x 175cm

Celia Lendis

|Steven Hubbard, Matchbox/Roma non e Stata Bruciata in un Giorno (Rome Wasn’t Burnt in a Day), Oil on canvas panel in marquetry case, 24cm x 64cm x 10cm (open)

“Regional doesn’t mean parochial anymore – art is often of equal quality to London but can be found at better prices ‘out of town’.”

~John Lendis (2013), There’s Rue for You, oil on linen, 120cm x 160cm

galleries are regularly selling works to clients in Paris, Berlin, Sydney, New York, London and towns throughout Britain.

In terms of what direction art seems to be taking at the moment, we are definitely seeing a resurgence of demand for art that combines classic craftsmanship with innovative, contemporary thinking and an international outlook.

In the first decade of the 21st century, many art buyers still felt divided between those who bought conceptual work (or artists like the Young British Artists) and those who bought traditional media works, such as oil paintings. It was often argued that these two streams of art could never (or should never) meet.That’s no longer the case.

A lot of our clients are quickly moving towards buying traditionally crafted work that is fresh and bold and exciting. There is a definite growing demand for artists who are highly skilled in the craft of painting but who are also working in really contemporary and innovative ways, on a major scale in many cases. There are so many talented artists who work in this way and many of them live in and around the Cotswolds; in many cases their work is under-represented in London and easier to find in regional galleries.

We find that Londoners are now seeking out the artists and the artworks we offer here in the Cotswolds and, as you so rightly observe, our London clients continue to report that the art we sell in the Cotswolds is often of a higher quality and a better price than anything they can buy in central London.

Celia Lendis.

Celia Lendis has more than 25 years of experience in the art world and owns a boutique contemporary art gallery in the North Cotswolds town of Moreton-in-Marsh. Established in 2010, the gallery represents artists of investment quality and international standing, along with emerging artists and those whose work is simply beautiful. Approachable, knowledgeable and passionate, we hope you will visit the gallery or website www.celialendis.com www.cotswold-homes.com

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A DESIGN FOR LIFE

A DESIGN FOR LIFE

We visit multi Guild Mark-winning furniture designer Robin Furlong at his new Moreton-in-Marsh premises.

Low Tension occasional table

There’s a new master craftsman in town.

Furniture designer Robin Furlong has upsized, taking his workshop from charming Great Wolford to Moreton-in-Marsh, a market town fast becoming one of the Cotswolds’ best interior shopping destinations.

The Colonel

‘Forward-thinkers already consider works from the Furlong stable to be worthwhile investments.’

Quite fittingly situated amongst a gallery and an antiques dealer, the new premises affords ample room for two display rooms and an extensive workshop. The space this move allows is ideal for his customers to observe the working process as well as admire the finished pieces on show.

Such prizes are not given lightly. (The work is vetted by three master craftsmen, after all). That Robin has been awarded four Guild Marks signifies that his pieces are more than just furniture – forward thinkers already consider works from the Furlong stable to be worthwhile investments.

And what finished pieces they are: each bespoke work is a distinguished creation, constructed from artfully chosen woods and completed to the highest standard. Some of his pieces are so accomplished, in fact, that Robin has received no less than four Guild Marks from the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers.

While he is looking forward to developing some of his ‘more avant-garde’ ideas in the near future, his furniture is all built to be enduring, robust; stuff that can be safely introduced to an active home.

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‘Everything’s made to take the knocks of life,’

he says. ‘The materials stand the test of time.

I’ve seen things I’ve sold twenty years ago look exactly as they did on the day they were delivered. It’s quite uncanny.’

A visit to his showroom will reveal the richness of his materials of choice – the nuanced shades of burr walnut, birdseye maple and the endearingly named catspaw yew. ‘I’m looking for great texture in everything that I do – a depth that comes from combinations and affinities of light and shade.’ Often the material is chosen for how it may subtly mature over time – ‘how it just grows more glorious.’

A DESIGN FOR LIFE

Still, function remains at the heart of his design philosophy. ‘I do make furniture for living, and I take all practical considerations into account – where it will be situated in a room, how many people will interact with it. We can make it to whatever dimensions that are needed.’

Robin’s customers are actively encouraged to visit his gallery during the making of their piece to follow his creative process. As a bespoke furniture maker, working with the ideas of others is naturally an important part of the trade. ‘It’s something I have an ear for – I’m very good at picking up the essence of what a customer is asking for. I spend a lot of time visiting homes to see the exact setting, constructing an image of what will inhabit that particular space.’

Crossbow dining

Whether it’s the distinctive mellow curves and forms of the completed objects or the carefully sourced and treated wood used in their production, Robin has created work that is perfectly suited to today’s Cotswold home, offering a stylish alternative or accompaniment to heritage furniture.

‘In this area there is a healthy appetite for antiques,’ he says. ‘But you have to consider that a lot of old furniture just doesn’t take into account the needs of modern life. Media storage, for instance, is important now, and that’s something that we bespoke makers can happily work around.’

Alongside his portfolio of living, bedroom, dining and corporate commissions, Robin’s designs have included the popular, eye-catching ‘T:Ray’ (a serving tray inspired after a visit to an aquarium) and a range of long clocks. The clocks breathe new life into a familiar form, reimagining an austere, rigid shape into something more fluid and contemporary. (‘We even made that one asymmetrical,’ he says, indicating a 2.3 metre high example in the showroom).

T:Ray

We round off the visit with a look at the Quattro revolving bookcase, beautifully constructed from dappled catspaw yew and apparently on loan from the purchaser. A gentle turn reveals the prestigious icon of a Guild Mark. I’ve never seen a bookcase anything quite like it. It seems to me that it can only acquire status over time, quietly enriching the household

as the Furlong brand continues to build.

Around a century ago, the Cotswolds became a hub of vibrant design as London’s most exciting craftspeople migrated to the Cotswolds to establish their legacies in the untarnished countryside. A visit to Robin Furlong happily demonstrates that the tradition is alive and kicking.

The Gallery and Workshop are open between 10am and 5pm Monday to Friday Robin Furlong: Furniture Designer Fosseway Business Park Stratford Road Moreton in Marsh Gloucestershire GL56 9NQ Telephone 01608 650567 www.robinfurlongfurniture.co.uk robin@robinfurlongfurniture.co.uk Tall sideboard

Consultations by appointment www.cotswold-homes.com

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What the Gamekeeper Saw Gamekeeper and wildlife photographer Adam’s image for this issue is of this fine-looking Muntjac buck. Muntjac deer were introduced to Britain from China in the early 20th century and became widespread when they were released from or escaped from parks. They do not cause significant agricultural damage except in areas of dense concentration. Muntjacs tend to be most active at dawn and at dusk. They also have a distinctive bark, which has

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them known by the name of ‘barking deer’.

See more of Adam’s work and browse his range of gift cards at www.cotswoldkeeperphotography.com.

Come see Adam’s work at Art In The Cotswolds, Wednesday 18th - Tuesday 24th September 2013 in Lower Slaughter Village Hall. Free entry.

Veronica James

From Area Dean Veronica James Dear Readers, The calendar of the church continually moves from one festival to another. Some festivals will have been part of the Celtic heritage of these lands and others arrived afresh with the dawn of the Christian faith, a few centuries after the birth of Christ. Just as cultures change and diversify over time, so too the celebrations and festivals in the church have evolved, to keep their relevance for communities and events.

At this harvest time, when we have the opportunity again to give thanks for the crops and produce that have been grown over the year, we can come together in our parish churches, decorating the windowsills and ledges with flowers and produce, giving thanks again for God’s great abundance.

The autumnal colours of dahlias, berries and sheaves of wheat set against mellow walls of Cotswold stone, with baskets of vegetables and fruit, all remind us of the toiling that has gone into the growing by farmers, allotment holders, gardeners, families and children. An entire community’s worth of love and graft has gone into what we eat.

Even when we find ourselves shopping in towns and cities, somebody, somewhere, will have put energy and time into the growing, packaging and

retailing of the food that we buy for our daily meals. Harvest festival gives us a time to take stock and give thanks.

This season, you might find yourself passing one of these Cotswold churches. Most are open in the daytime - do visit if you are passing by.

At the Harvest Festival services we will be collecting harvest gifts for the Cotswold Foodbank. These are a selection of Harvest Festival Services at parish churches in and around the North Cotswold area:

“Even when we find ourselves shopping in towns and cities, somebody, somewhere, will have put energy and time into the growing, packaging and retailing of the food that we buy for our daily meals.”

Sunday 22 September, 11am St Mary’s Church, Temple Guiting GL54 5RW; Sunday 22 September, 11am St Mary’s Church, Lower Slaughter GL54 2HR; Sunday 22 September, 3pm St James’ Church, Cutsdean GL54 5RX; Sunday 6 October, 11am St Peter’s Church, Upper Slaughter GL54 2JF; Sunday 6 October, 3pm St Faith’s Church, Farmcote GL54 5AU; Sunday 6 October, 4pm St Michael & All Angels Church, Guiting Power GL54 5TY.

If you are able to donate tins and dried produce, then these will all be truly appreciated by the recipients of the Foodbank – thank you.

With every blessing for the autumn and enjoy the festival of the season, From Revd Canon Veronica James Area Dean – North Cotswold Deanery, Church of England www.cotswold-homes.com

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THE GRAPEVINE HOTEL

Grape Expectations!

Century old vine gets kiss of life When Elaine and Martyn Booth took over Stow’s Grapevine Hotel last year they set about refurbishing the town centre property. However, the one thing that gave them the most sleepless nights was the eponymous vine itself. In a poor state, shedding sticky brown leaves onto the carpet below it looked, for all intents and purposes, as if the vine was on the critical list.

removing the dead leaves, treating it for a common pest found on indoor vines, and giving it some much needed TLC. Alex now returns regularly to ensure the vine stays healthy.

This century old indoor Hamburg vine is reputedly the second oldest in the UK (the oldest being at Hampton Court).

In addition to the extensive treatment the vine received, the heating was turned off during the refurbishment and Alex thinks this may have allowed the vine to conserve energy during its critical healing phase.

‘I was panicking that we may actually have to cut down the very item that gives the hotel not only its name but its uniqueness,’ explained Elaine. ‘How would that look to cut down a piece of history?’

One of the first guests to stay reminisced about how they had spent their honeymoon at the hotel and the memory they treasured most was eating under the vine. It’s a story that staff hear all the time, according to manager Karl Solomon. ‘I suppose it’s not something you see every day and that’s why it stays in the memory of previous guests for so long.’

The battle was now on to save the vine.

Whilst organising painters and plumbers for the refurbishment of the hotel, Elaine contacted a specialist horticultural company for help and advice.

Alex Calado, director of Oxford Lawns and Gardens came to inspect the vine and pronounced it poorly but not terminal. Alex then set about restoring the vine by stripping back all of the old bark and 92

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‘The vine is magnificent,’ explained Alex, ‘and we were excited to bring it back to its former glory.

Our problem now is keeping it under control!’

The vine is now flourishing and the large bunches of black grapes are testing diners in a different way. ‘We are always being asked if the vine is real, because the grapes look so perfect!’ remarked Karl.

Lit up at night and offering shade during the day, once again the Grapevine Hotel has a grapevine to be proud of and a wonderfully unique place to dine or celebrate a wedding or party.

‘Our chefs create amazing food and it’s only right that they have a unique location to serve it in.’ Elaine told us. ‘We have already held lunches with live music, a wedding fayre and are playing host to Prue Leith for afternoon tea in August as part of the Stow Festival. Now we can be confident that the vine will be a talking point for all the right reasons.’

The Grapevine Hotel, Sheep Street, Stow on the Wold, GL 54 1AU.Tel: 01451 830344 www.vines.co.uk

We have already held lunches with live music, a wedding fayre and are playing host to Prue Leith for afternoon tea in August as part of the Stow Festival.

Raymond Blanc

Ray m o n d

Blanc

Part Deux - L’ É COLE DE CUI SI NE Collette Fairweather finds herself back at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons attempting to learn a few tri cks of the trade under the watchful eyes of team Blanc.

As per usual, I’m running late, my sat-nav has lied to me once again, and I find myself rallying along the lanes of the Oxfordshire countryside, the twists and turns preventing me from gauging how far I actually am from my destination.

I’m returning to Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Great Milton at the kind invitation of Monsieur Blanc himself. At our last meeting he spoke of the provenance of food, emphasising at length and in depth the importance of the local, the seasonal and the fresh. Unsurprisingly, we somewhat digressed from the original purpose of our meeting, that being to discuss the new short cookery courses being taught in the two Michelin starred kitchen of Le Manoir.

In fact, we managed completely to omit the courses from our discussions. As we had completely exhausted our time and our energies, RB, as he’s known, thought best that I returned to experience one for myself, and with some overzealous head nodding and an ear-aching grin on my part, I accepted the generous offer with relish.

And so I’m back at this haven of serenity, where it’s impossible not to feel instantly at peace. The broad smiles of immaculate staff lead me toward a snug room where my seven fellow pupils have been gathered.

Tea is served and introductions are made. Most importantly we learn a little about our teacher 96

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Raymond Blanc

décor is undeniably chic, a standard that continues behind the swinging kitchen doors.

The kitchens gleam with cleanliness and the staff appear crisp in their starched chefs whites.

We wide-eyed pupils file through a maze of stainless steel to an oasis of domesticity (the teaching kitchen having been specifically designed to have a homely feel to it). There is a demonstration island in the centre, with television screens overhead to enable an all-angle view of the action. Laid out waiting are our itineraries, helpfully slicing up our extensive day into bite-size portions.

“Filled with fresh air, we return to a scent of pure heaven, our rhubarb tarts having been rescued from the oven and their sweet enticing smell filling the room.”

Mark Peregrine and his impressive credentials (Raymond Blanc’s first ever apprentice in 1979, at Les Quat’Saisons in Oxford’s Summertown).

We hear about the little restaurant sandwiched between Oxfam and an old ladies lingerie shop, where the team won their first Michelin Star over twenty six years ago. And how, after several decades exploring the theory that the grass is greener, the wanderer returned to

pass on a lifetime of practical experience to us hungry pupils. As is the way of Le Manoir, he’s wonderfully approachable (unlike the many chefs left ravaged by unrelenting pressure and endless late nights) and fully accepting of my curiosity and copious questions.

Le Manoir is all about quality; the staff are all perfectly trained in their respective roles and the

From the onset the importance of quality of a product is emphasised. How do you recognise, for example, when your chicken has developed through movement over a suitable period of time, unlike their poor battery cousins? Mark stresses that ‘a chicken should resemble the athlete Jessica Ennis – strong and developed in the thigh and leg and not too ample in the bosom!’

The majority of the morning is spent observing and absorbing the importance of kitchen etiquette, and the value in the whole process – there’s no such thing as ‘cutting corners’ in this kitchen. Our pastry making is a fine example, as it’s a process that sporadically interjects our entire morning demonstrations; binding – chilling – rolling (between two sheets of cling-film – ingenious!) – chilling – blind baking – cooling – filling – baking – cooling. As we learn, the secret ingredient to pastry is patience. www.cotswold-homes.com

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Raymond Blanc

To my delight, I discover one of the most important tools in the kitchen is the tasting spoon. We are encouraged to sample everything, from sauces, to vinegars to herbs and plants, including raw wild garlic leaves. We spend some time on oils, discussing the difference on the palate, and the science behind the oil, and how it’s important to employ the right tool for the job.

You can’t beat the flavour of beautiful extra virgin oil on your salad but it doesn’t enjoy being heated and it burns easily. Mark demonstrates this as the smoke fills the room with an acrid and all too familiar smell. Rapeseed oil seems to be the solution and I feel a strange local pride as their preferred product is Broadway boy Charlie Beldam’s rapeseed oil, Cotswold Gold, trumping the competition to use in the prestigious kitchens of Monsieur Blanc.

Lunch time is looming and therefore we all leap into action, creating a beautiful light starter of steamed asparagus. Whisks provide a chorus of dutiful scrapes as our tiring arms attempt to entice air bubbles into suspiciously dense lemon sabayon.

White wine accompanies our efforts, and with coaching opportunities never missed, we are tutored as to why this particular grape compliments our meal. The red wine is unsurprisingly divine too, and I’m wishing at this point I wasn’t driving home. I note some of my shrewder classmates have booked into beautiful rooms in order to take full benefit of the day.

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“ M y s a u c e s w i l l f or e ve r b e gl o ssy an d s m o o t h a n d, from t h is mome n t, s ou fflés w i ll a ppe a r f e a r l e ssly on my di n n e r pa rt y me n u s ! ” We plate up our main course - a roasted chump of lamb on shallot and garlic puree and drizzle with roasting juices - and sit down together to devour our efforts. Mark chats while we munch.

A whirlwind of activity takes place behind us, as the kitchen porters steal away our dirty pots and polish the granite tops in seemingly effortless

choreographed motion. This is a luxury I would be delighted to become accustomed to.

After what can only be described as a morning of educated gluttony, we take a waddle around the gardens. We pass through the ivy-laced archways framing the entrance to the vegetable beds,

Raymond Blanc

“Mark str ess es that ‘a chi c ken should r es em b l e t he athlete J essic a Ennis – str o n g a n d d eveloped i n the t hig h and l eg a nd not too a m p l e i n the bo s o m !”

stretching out before us in meticulous military rows. As is the nature of this cookery course, we nibble our way around each bed.

We are given a brief tour and insight into the diverse range of plants. My favourite is doubtlessly the mushroom valley, where a warm mossy gulley invites fungus in every form to flourish while a family of sculpted truffle pigs appear to snuffle in the undergrowth.

But having already lost half an hour, and having only touched on the extensive grounds, we return to the kitchen via the pond, where a striking sculpture of flocking birds taking flight rises from a small central island. Its chilly green waters having played host, so we’re told, to many an unceremonious dunking, a forfeit for any departing chef - that is until ‘elf and safety’ put a stop to the antics. You can easily imagine a swarm of chefs’ whites bundling a deserter over the railings, probably with Monsieur Blanc at the helm.

Although Raymond isn’t at Le Manoir today, you can easily imagine turning a corner and coming nose to nez with him. His presence is ever felt in the conviction of perfection you find wherever you glance.

Filled with fresh air, we return to a scent of pure heaven, our rhubarb tarts having been rescued from the oven and their sweet enticing smell filling the room. Soufflés are the main order of the afternoon, interspersed with a few other sweet delights. Mark takes great pleasure in deflating the fears of soufflé creation; he’s rough and heavy, and delighting in our horror as he opens the oven door on a semi inflated puff of deliciousness. He relishes our bewilderment at his approach to what is renowned as the most unforgiving of desserts, and for the grand finale he plates towering ramekins of delectable perfection.

The day draws to a close, and we are all presented with goody-bags containing a wealth of treats, including personalised, framed certificates of course completion. Although we are now laden with our goodies, we head out via narrow alleys around the kitchen, often finding ourselves

pinned to walls as the ever smiling staff go about their duties. The pass (where the plates receive their final checks before entering the restaurant) is presided over by a life-size bronze of Raymond Blanc, watching over every plate as it departs and now us, as we emerge into reception.

After Mark says a personal goodbye to each of us, I ponder the day’s lessons. Not only have we completed some pretty nifty set recipes, we’ve also learnt – almost subliminally - how to make the most of our ingredients and ovens and been inducted into the art of knife maintenance.

With the help of the kitchen porters and all the ingredients pre-weighed, precious time was never wasted.

I feel exhausted but empowered, although it’s impossible to presume that I (or any mere mortal) will remember all the knowledge I have been served. There are certain titbits of advice, though, which I will apply from the moment I returned to my own humble kitchen.

Subsequently, never again will my pastry cases have soggy bottoms, nor will they ever stick to every surface when rolling. My sauces will forever be glossy and smooth and, from this moment, soufflés will appear fearlessly on my dinner party menus!

The perfect present for yourself and your loved ones - Courses run throughout the year, and with almost thirty different courses to choose from, visit reservations@blanc.co.uk or phone +44 (0)1844 278 881 for further details.

R eader l un c h o ffe r as f o l l o w s : Founded by French culinary master Raymond Blanc, this 32-room country hotel, nestled in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Great Milton, is the ultimate in gastronomic hideaways. Like a more perfect version of the ideal country manor, Le Manoir is somewhere you’ll never want to leave. Boasting a two-Michelin-starred restaurant and some of the most heavenly rooms and suites in the UK, a stay here is certainly an experience to remember.

Cotswold Homes readers can experience Le Manoir for themselves, enjoy Raymond Blanc’s 5-course lunch with half a bottle of selected wine per person and coffee and petits fours. Priced at £99.00 per person, this Cotswold Homes reader lunch is available Monday to Fridays until the end of November 2013, subject to availability.

Take a romantic glimpse of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons as it hosts a wedding showcase welcoming couples in search of their perfect wedding setting on Sunday 29th September 2013. Places are limited, so please register your interest by emailing events@blanc.co.uk and detail your name, telephone number and estimated numbers for your special day. www.cotswold-homes.com 99

Bledington’s Celebrity Jam

Bledington’s

Celebrity Jam

Stars submit recipes while villagers churn out preserves to fund creation of local shop For years we’ve been reading how the humble village shop is going the way of the dodo, trampled underfoot by rapacious chain stores – a casualty of convenience and price-slashing.

But the Gloucestershire village of Bledington is one of the hundreds of UK villages campaigning to re-introduce their own community shop, utilising some canny fundraising tactics to help them reach 100 Cotswold Homes Magazine

the £200,000 needed to realise their goal.

Not only are the villagers making a whopping 3,000 jars of jam to sell at Jamie Oliver and Alex James’ Big Feastival, they are also publishing a unique cookbook stuffed full of specially penned celebrity summer recipes.

Collecting submissions from the likes of Jeremy

Clarkson, Prue Leith, Richard Hammond, Anne Robinson, Matt Allwright, Alex James and Adam Henson, villagers are hoping book sales will help bring them closer to re-establishing a community centre in the village, which has been missing since the closure of the previous shop and Post Office in 2006.

Celebrity submissions already received range from Clarkson’s characteristically unpretentious ‘Beans on Toast’ to Prue Leith’s tasty ‘Teriyaki Leg of Lamb’.

Bledington’s Celebrity Jam

Adam Henson’s Mum’s Steak and Kidney Pie INGREDIENTS Marinade The planned shop premises will be constructed from wood and with the building designed to be entirely sympathetic to the character of the village. Run by a full time manager and served by a team of 20+ volunteers, the shop will also provide a café to serve as a key social space for the residents of Bledington. Other features include a book exchange, noticeboard and mailing facilities. With permission already obtained from the council, raising the money required to launch is the largest remaining obstacle.

Determined to make the venture financially sustainable, the shop group has visited successful village shops in places such as Ashton-under-Wychwood, Charlbury and Blockley to discuss how to establish a lasting legacy. ‘We’ve interviewed the managers, we’ve seen the accounts, we’ve learned what makes them successful,’ states the group on the project website, www.bledington.com.

Community support organisation the Plunkett Foundation (itself based in nearby Woodstock) reports that in 1993 there were only 23 community owned shops, yet after twenty years the total has risen dramatically to over 300 – with 30 set to open in 2013 alone.

You can help Bledington’s efforts by purchasing some of their jars, with Lemon Curd, Sweet Tomato Chilli Jam, Piccalilli and Caramalised Red Onion Maramalade varieties all available.

2 large Onions, finely chopped 2 glasses Red Wine or Beer 2 tbsp Soy Sauce 2 cloves Garlic, finely chopped Salt, Pepper and Mixed Herbs Olive Oil

Pastry 12 oz Self Raising Flour 6 oz Margarine 1 medium Egg Egg for glazing

Filling

4 oz Button Mushrooms (optional) 1 lb best Stewing Beef, chopped or cubed 8 oz Kidney, chopped or cubed Flour for coating 1 pt Beef Stock (2 stock cubes can be used) 1 tbsp Horseradish (optional)

Remove beef and kidney from marinade and coat with flour, then quickly seal in hot frying pan. Put into good-sized saucepan and gently add stock.

Blend any leftover flour with marinated juices and add to beef and kidney, stirring to combine.

Gently bring to slow boil, making sure to stir gently so that the flour absorbs the liquid and starts to thicken. Simmer for 40-45 mins.

Make up Pastry

Rub fat into flour, preferably with fingers, until it forms fine breadcrumbs. Add beaten egg into flour mix, stirring with metal knife – don’t let it get too wet. Add a minute sprinkle of water if too dry. It should hold together in a ball in hand (not sticky!).

Divide pastry 2/3rd base to 1/3rd top. Flour flat surface and roll out larger piece to desired size and fit into deep dish.

Make sure meat is cool (not cold) before you put onto pastry.

METHOD

The gravy should be thick (coat a spoon).

Lightly fry onion and garlic in a small amount of oil for 4-5 mins. Leave to cool in a flat, deep dish.

Add beef, kidney, wine or beer, soy sauce, salt, pepper and herbs.

Fill to within ½” of top of dish, add button mushrooms if used.

Turn occasionally to keep moist – leave as long as possible.

Make up stock with boiling water and when cool add horseradish (if used) and mix in.

Roll pastry top to size, brush base edge with beaten egg or water then add top and seal by crimping edges.

Brush top with beaten egg.

Cook in a moderate oven (180°c) for 25 minutes until golden brown.

“Other features include a book exchange, noticeboard and mailing facilities. With permission already obtained from the council, raising the money required to launch is the largest remaining obstacle.”

Visit www.bledington.com to keep to date with all the latest developments. www.cotswold-homes.com 101

TIM SPITTLE

d an m fir ng ro st a t an w u yo If ! es ch un cr of s Forget hour ! ed ne u yo l al is es ut in m 5 -1 10 en th n, tio ec -s flat mid As a trainer, I often hear people talking about the need for a six-pack, washboard or rock hard abs.

But, as great as the elusive chiselled deck is, most important and far more easily obtained is a solid midsection, trunk or core.The interconnecting muscles around your lower back -abdominals, glutes and obliques - work in conjunction with each other to offer support, protection and strength to your frame.These muscles enable good posture, prevent injury and form the foundation of everyday movement, as well as giving a tight core that looks good in jeans and t-shirts!

The Core Foundation of any Sport There is a hardly a sport in existence that does not involve training your core. Whether it is for pleasure, competition or simply a means to keep fit, if you train your core harder, you will achieve more.Take a popular pastime such as running - we can see some of the important muscles that must be developed to endure certain actions and movements, if we want to run faster and for longer.

FASTER RUNNING Strengthening your rectus abdominals, transverse and lower back will stabilise and allow more force from your stride and quicken your pace.

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Erector spinae

External obliques Rectus abdominis Transversus abdominis Rectus abdominis Rectus femoris

Quadratus lumborum Gluteus medius Gluteus maximus

UPHILL

DOWNHILL

STAMINA

TURNING

If your glutes and abdominals are tight, you will support your pelvis, which will in turn offer a stable plane for your legs, creating a powerful ascent.

To protect your knees and back from jarring when running downhill, a strong shock absorbing set of muscles will help prevent injury and fatigue.

To add longevity to your runs, especially when you are tired, strengthening your back, erector spinae and quadrates lumborum (QL’s) will enable you to run longer without placing additional stress on knees and shins.

Tight obliques will keep you tall and straight when running corners or suddenly avoiding mishaps.

These, in turn, prevent unnecessary sudden shifts in weight through leg muscles and protect pressure on joints, such as hip and ankles.

TIM SPITTLE

Core Workout for Runners 15 minutes - 3 to 5 times a week BRIDGE Glutes & Hamstrings Lie on your back with legs held at 90 degrees. Raise hips with a firm squeeze of your glutes and hold for 5-10 seconds.

Lower and repeat 10-12 times. Lift one leg once extended to make movement harder.

HIP ROTATION Obliques Lie face up with legs bent 90 degrees. Rotate across your body keep your shoulders pressed to the floor. Lower from left to right and as near to the floor each side as possible without touching. Repeat 10-12 times on each side. Try straight legs to make the movement harder. (Take Care with your lower back!)

HYPEREXTENSIONS Transverse, erector spinae & QL's Lie face down with arms and legs fully extended. Squeeze your glutes then raise one leg and both arms (comfortably) and hold for 5 seconds. Rest and repeat 10-12 times on each leg.

Advanced core PLANK KNEE UP Hold a plank with your elbows under your shoulders with your legs and hips in a straight line. Turn your head slightly and watch your knee turn out and up to your elbow, then return.

Hold your tummy firm with each movement alternating from left leg to right leg. Do 16 repetitions 3-4 times.

PLANK LEG LIFT Hold a plank firm. Squeeze your glutes and raise a leg a few centimetres keeping your torso fixed. Hold for 3 seconds and alternate 16 repetitions 3-4 times.

Remember in whatever sport or job you do, to create a firmer, flatter look you should train your core regularly - you will be amazed with the results. www.cotswold-homes.com 103

Milton Dental Practice

Dental Health

Matters

Making the most of a smile – orthodontic treatments

Dr Trevor Bigg, Milton Dental Practice BDS, MGDS RCS(Eng), FDS RCS(Ed), FFGDP(UK) What’s the first thing you notice when you look at someone’s face?

It’s scientifically proven that the first feature someone notices about a face is the mouth and that the earlier in life the appearance is improved, the more likely it is that the person goes through life with a positive self-image. In our society the desire to look attractive is no longer considered vanity. In a competitive world it’s a necessity, socially and economically. The way dentists go about improving a patient’s appearance has changed over the last decade. As we all live longer it’s vital that teeth are restored with as little damage as possible to the tooth’s structure, because once this has been removed it’s gone for ever.

“In our society the desire to look attractive is no longer considered vanity. In a competitive world it’s a necessity, socially and economically.”

What are the best ways to improve a smile?

How to treat adults who don’t like the idea of a brace?

If you have crooked or irregular teeth, there is no better way of straightening these than with Orthodontics. Generally, orthodontic treatment is used on younger patients. In America orthodontic appliances, or braces, are supplied to children as young as eight years old, but this has been shown to be unnecessary in most cases and simply prolongs the treatment time for the unfortunate patient. There is a discipline, called Orthopaedic Orthodontics, which promotes early appliance wearing to alter the shape of the jaws as they are growing. But the jury is still out on this, as all mainstream orthodontists believe that this is not possible. Most orthodontists will want to start brace treatment when all the adult eye-teeth or canines are through, and this generally occurs at about thirteen years or so.

Adult Orthodontics is now a routine procedure in this country. Adults are understandably less willing to sport metal wires and brackets on front teeth, so the profession has devised alternative materials and procedures to overcome this.

Tooth coloured wires and ceramic brackets will often disguise the appearance of braces for all but the closest examination. If this is still too obvious, then in some circumstances lingual braces can be worn. These are fixed to the inner surface of the teeth and so are not seen when smiling.

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CAD/CAM techniques Even cleverer techniques have now been developed using Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacture or CAD/CAM.

The original teeth are scanned electronically and computer models of the teeth are ‘moved’ step by step until the desired appearance has been reached. At each stage of the movement, small transparent mouthguards are made to fit over the teeth and gently push them towards a better position. But, be warned, these techniques are not suitable for everyone and are usually more expensive and slower that conventional braces.

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, you might wish to visit Milton Dental Practice for an assessment by Dr Bigg.

To accompany this article, using the Cotswold Homes Free Privilege Card, the practice is offering a New Patient Examination at the reduced fee of £57.00 (normally £86.00) and a free Denplan Examination. For further information, please contact Penny at Milton Dental Practice: 01993 831 396 or email penny@drbigg.com

BLOXHAM SCHOOL

Upholding a Legacy of Success Bloxham School’s new Headmaster is only its thirteenth in 153 years About Bloxham School Bloxham was founded in 1860 by the Reverend Philip Reginald Egerton and joined the Woodard Corporation of Schools in 1896. It remains a Woodard School to this day and is proud of the affiliation.

Recent years have witnessed Bloxham strengthen its position with the advent of coeducation and the opening of a Lower School, Exham House, to cater for ages 11 and 12.

Numbers are pegged at around 420 in total with a strong 6th Form.

Recent building works have seen the completion of the inspirational Vallance Library, extension to the Sam Kahn Music School and also, to cater to a new subject to the curriculum, a splendid new Food and Nutrition facility.

You can find out more about Bloxham by visiting www.bloxhamschool.com and accessing the online prospectus.

Paul Sanderson and his family have just arrived in Bloxham ahead of Paul becoming Bloxham’s 13th Headmaster in this, its 153rd year. Paul joins Bloxham from Gordonstoun in Scotland where he has been Deputy Head with responsibility for academic matters.

People are often surprised that a school with such a long history has had so few Headmasters.This phenomenon is easily explained by the school’s Director of Marketing and Houseparent Nick Irvine: “Bloxham is a very hard school to leave! It is also somewhere that it is easy to feel at home in and fall in love with – and that goes for pupils, staff and yes, Headmasters too.

“Our founder, Rev Philip Egerton, was a man of great vision, energy and conviction and it is clear from our school’s history that those who have followed in his path have had similar qualities.

“Egerton built with vigour and confidence and the central core of buildings constructed between 1860 and 1870 are still very much at the heart of the campus today. Successive heads have added to the charming campus to complement and constantly update the facilities available to Bloxham’s cohort of

"We have listened and will continue to listen to our marketplace and have moulded the offer to suit what the majority of our parents seem to be wanting ..." around 400 boys and girls aged between 11 and 18.”

During outgoing Head’s Mark Allbrook’s 11 years at the helm the school added a magnificent multi-media library complete with lecture theatre and tutorial rooms, a 6th form art studio, a large extension to the Music School, a state of the art food and nutrition centre, and a magnificent weekly boarding house for the school’s youngest pupils in years 7 & 8. Even as Paul Sanderson arrives the school will be completing projects that will see reworked space for a 6th form centre, medical centre and a re-surfaced artificial turf hockey facility together with a new sports hall floor, roof and viewing galleries.

There has also been extensive modernisation of the boarding provision both in terms of the physical facilities and also the structure and style of boarding.

“Parents are more inclined to want to be close enough to their children to offer them support in all that they do - be that in concerts, plays or in matches.”

Bloxham, which is about 50% boarding, is then essentially a local boarding school with most families coming from within a one-hour travel band of the North Oxfordshire school. “ We have listened and will continue to listen to our marketplace and have moulded the offer to suit what the majority of our parents seem to be wanting – boarding but with great access or day places with the flexibility of being able to board when it is required.”

Here’s wishing Paul the best of luck in his new role.

We can’t wait to see how he will build on Bloxham’s legacy of success. www.cotswold-homes.com 105

Cotswolds this Halloween

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Cotswolds this Halloween

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A Rhino Arrival

We took a trip to the Cotswold Wildlife Park to meet a three day old white rhino A wave of excitement passed through the Cotswold Wildlife Park on the morning of Monday July 1st. Somewhere between 7.30am and 7.45am, Nancy the white rhino successfully gave birth to the very first baby rhino in the park’s forty-three year history.

Just three days later, we were there to see the new arrival toddling around the paddock as though it had been there forever. It was such early days that the keepers weren’t even entirely sure of the baby’s gender (but determined that it was probably female).

News of the birth leaked fast as visitors started snapping the baby and posting pictures to social media websites, meaning that the happy news had to be officially released a little earlier than is customary. As sometimes problems can arise with newly born animals, the park will refrain from naming the baby until it has been settled for some time.

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During our visit Nancy certainly seemed a protective mother, grunting away the other rhinos and the inquisitive zebras in the mixed paddock where they live. She is one of two females who were introduced three years ago, with the other female, Ruby, due to give birth just a couple of months after Nancy’s delivery Rhino pregnancies typically last around sixteen to eighteen months. Females only reproduce every two-and-a-half to five years, so the window of opportunity for successful reproduction is limited.

Reports suggest that new dad Monty is a little scared (just like most fathers, then) but will shy away any curious zebras that may stray too close.

Keepers watching mother and child around the clock and at the time of writing the pair are in great health. The successful birth marks the fulfilment of the dream to breed a rhino at the park after Nancy and Ruby journeyed eleven thousand kilometres from South Africa’s

Mafunyane Game Park in 2009 to join lone male Monty.

White rhinos are the most numerous and also the largest species of rhino in the world. Fullygrown individuals can stand up to six feet tall and weigh up to an incredible three tonnes. The white rhinoceros is also the largest land mammal after the three species of elephant.

Those distinctive horns, composed of keratin

A Rhino Arrival

WIN TICKETS

SEE

instead of bone, are still highly sought after on the black market for use as status symbols and as ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine. Over time this resulted in the massive decline of the black rhino species and presently only the white rhino is not endangered (instead classified as Near Threatened), but this was not always the case – the white rhino was critically endangered in the early 1900s, when it was believed that only twenty to fifty animals remained in their native lands.

Protection has ensured they have gone from being the most threatened subspecies to the most common, but the human threat remains ever present.

PAGE

4

“Rhino pregnancies typically last around sixteen to eighteen months. Females only reproduce every two-and-a-half to five years, so the window of opportunity for successful reproduction is limited.”

White rhinos have surprisingly complex social structures. Males typically form territories of around a square mile marked out with dung piles.

Females are wider roaming but breeding females are usually kept within the territory of dominant males. Groups of rhinos (or ‘crashes’) can form composed of up to fourteen individuals consisting mainly of mothers and calves.

You can win tickets to the Cotswold Wildlife Park! Turn to page 4 for more details.

Visitors can see the new calf daily from 10am to 6pm (last entry at 4.30pm) in the large paddock they share with a herd of Chapman’s Zebras overlooking the Manor House or in their solar powered Rhino House. Cotswold Wildlife Park works closely with Tusk Trust to promote vital conservation work. Find out more at www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk/ conservation and www.tusk.org www.cotswold-homes.com 109

Events

THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events

SEPTEMBER WYCHWOOD FOREST FAIR Celebrating both the natural world and the work and lifestyles of those people who live in the Royal Hunting Forest of Wychwood, the Wychwood Forest Fair raises funds to support vital local conservation and landscaping work. See www.wychwoodproject.org for more information.

7 STROUD FOOD FESTIVAL, STRATFORD PARK Showcasing the tastiest of local produce and the most accomplished of locals chefs, the Stroud Food Festival should be a foodie’s delight.

Various other festivals make Stroud a hive of activity at this time. Visit www.stroudvalleysfestivals.co.uk/fooddrink.html for more information.

7 STROUD FESTIVAL OF NATURE Reconnect with nature in this family-friendly festival featuring live animals, exhibitions, walks and landscape projects. Visit www. stroudnature.com for more details.

7 MORETON IN MARSH AGRICULTURAL SHOW A traditional one-day agricultural and horse show, the incredibly popular Moreton in Marsh Agricultural Show is the leading agricultural event in the County. Livestock and produce competitions, around 250 trade stalls and show ring spectacles make this a date to remember. Visit www.moretonshow.co.uk for more details.

8-11 WILDERNESS FESTIVAL, CHARLBURY Quirky, classy and trendy, Wilderness is situated in the beautiful Cornbury Park and offers gourmet food, shopping and indie headliners. Featuring Empire of the Sun, Noah and the Whale and more. See www.windernessfestival.com 9 CHIPPING NORTON THEATRE FUNDRAISER, BOURTON HOUSE GARDEN Come to this great event in a scenic, award-winning venue, featuring Jazz, Folk and children’s dressing up. Support one of the best regional theatres in the country in style! (9am-5pm / £6 Adults, Children Free) 12-15 BLENHEIM INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS, BLENHEIM PALACE A three-star, three-day equestrian event, the horse trials feature entertainments of the highest calibre, with the Palace providing an appropriately grand backdrop to the proceedings. Featuring the finest riders from around the world and a variety of attractions and trade stalls. Visit www.blenheim-horse.co.uk for more details.

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THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events 13-21 JANE AUSTEN FESTIVAL, BATH Opening with a regency costume promenade led by town crier, this year’s Jane Austen Festival will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of the publication of Pride and Prejudice. A must visit for Austen aficionados. Visit www.janeausten.co.uk/festivalhome/ for more details 14 NEWENT ONION FAIR A one day street festival of food, drink…and onion eating.

Celebrating Newent’s market-town history, the fair’s centrepiece is the prestigious onion eating competition, in which 5-7 ounce onions are consumed like apples. Just don’t stand downwind! Visit www. newentonionfair.org 15 CLASSIC VEHICLE DAY, GLOUCESTERSHIREWARWICKSHIRE RAILWAY TODDINGTON Historic cars and vintage trains make this a good day for classic vehicle enthusiasts. Including motorcycles, buses and a range of other antique automobiles. Visit www.gwsr.com

21-22 DAY OUT WITH THOMAS, GLOUCESTERSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE Join family favourite Thomas the Tank Engine and his rotund superior the Fat Controller for two days of railbound fun. Featuring a selection of entertainments to keep all amused. Visit www.gwsr.com 22 CLYPPING CEREMONY, St. MARY’S CHURCH, PAINSWICK Thought to date back to 1321, this ancient ceremony involves singing hymns of appreciation for Painswick’s distinctive church, surrounded by the iconic 99 yew trees. The old stories have it that the event was so popular in the past that mean-strapped publicans were forced to use puppy meat in their pies…today, china dogs are baked into pastries as a modern alternative. ‘Clypping’ is taken from old English and here means ‘embracing’.

28 APPLE DAY, CHASTLETON HOUSE From baking to cooking, from chutneys to cheeses – find out more about our favourite fruit at Chastleton House, an atmospheric Jacobean manor hidden in the heart of the Cotswold countryside.

The event is free but normal ticket charges apply. See www. nationaltrust.org.uk/chastleton-house/ for more information. www.cotswold-homes.com 111

Events

THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events

OCTOBER 4-13 Cheltenham Literature Festival The country’s premier festival of literature returns to Cheltenham promising a typically impressive line-up of writers, artists, stars and thinkers. With talks, debates, family entertainments and The Big Read, it’s an event that book-lovers cannot afford to miss. Visit http://www. cheltenhamfestivals.com/literature/ for more information.

9-13 Horse of the Year Show at the NEC, Birmingham The UK’s biggest indoor equestrian event, the Horse of the Year Show takes place at The NEC. NEC hosts the finals of the most highly regarded national showing and show jumping championships and celebrates the end of the competitive season in true style with five days action packed with all things equestrian. Visit www.hoys. co.uk for more information.

5-6 Autumn Classic Weekend at Prescott Hill Climb This all-American stars n’ stripes weekend celebrates the biggest, brightest and brashest cars this side of the pond. Pontiacs, Mustangs, Cadillacs and Chevys will all be only display alongside Harleys and other choppers. Featuring family entertainments, food and Rockabilly music. Visit www.prescott-hillclimb.com for more information.

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EVENTS

THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events 11 Sudeley Castle - NGS Open Day Romantic ruins, award-winning gardens and one thousand years of fascinating history are among the many reasons to visit the ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’. Sudeley Gardens and Exhibitions opens in support of the NGS. Visit www.sudeleycastle.co.uk for more information.

12 Sean Lock at the Cheltenham Centaur One of the UK’s most beloved comics comes to town, promising to make you ‘laugh like a drunken horse’. Tickets £23.50 (Adults). Visit www.cheltenham.co.uk/conference-and-events/whats-on/comedy/ sean-lock/ for more information.

19-20 Gloucester Antiques Fair at the Upper Deck, Gloucester Brian Ashbee Antiques in conjunction with the Gloucester Antiques Centre are delighted to offer a new and exciting event at the heart of the historic Gloucester docks. The fair will be held in a modern, bright and purpose built exhibition area; The Upper Deck. Visit www. aafairs.co.uk/aafairs/aafairs.html for more information.

24 Gypsy Horse Fair, Stow on the Wold This historic event sees hundreds of horses bought and sold by the travelling communities and has been part of Stow’s calendar for years.

The second of two annual festivals.

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Events

THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events

NOVEMBER 11-16 CHELTENHAM COMEDY FESTIVAL Cheltenham: the new comedy capital of the UK? Laugh along this year and find out. Organised by the team behind the Wychwood Festival, the Cheltenham Comedy festival will feature such stars as Reginald D Hunter, Richard Herring and Giffords Circus favourite, Tweedy the Clown. Visit www.cheltenhamtownhall.org for more information.

15-17 THE OPEN MEETING, CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE Football has Wembley, tennis has Wimbledon and jump racing has Cheltenham. Three days of racing magic and the Paddy Power Gold Cup make this a must for equestrian enthusiasts around the globe.

See www.cheltenham.co.uk/fixtures/the-open for more information.

16 & 23 FESTIVAL OF BRITTEN, GLOUCESTER Four eminent Gloucestershire organizations have joined forces to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Benjamin Britten’s birth in 2013 through a series of recitals and concerts in Gloucester city centre.

Cheltenham Bach Choir, Gloucester Cathedral Choir, Gloucester Choral Society and Gloucester Music Society will present ten events from October through to December, ranging from intimate song recitals to a large-scale community opera. Cumulatively, the four groups have a history of 793 years of music-making in Gloucestershire. Visit www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk for more information.

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EVENTS

THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events 25-30 JEKYLL & HYDE, THE PLAYHOUSE CHELTENHAM The classic tale of a tormented genius grappling with his bestial dark side appears on stage as a gothic musical this November at The Playhouse in Cheltenham. Frank Wildhorn’s music with Leslie Bricusse’s lyrics together create a moving theatrical experience. See www.playhousecheltenham.org/ for more information.

24 CHRISTMAS LIGHTS FESTIVAL AND CHRISTMAS MARKET FESTIVAL Get into the Christmas spirit with this fun family festival in Tewkesbury. Stalls, shopping, dancing, fairground rides and the stars of The Roses’ traditional pantomime await! Visit www. tewkesburychristmaslights.co.uk for more information.

28-29 MICHAELMAS FESTIVAL AND APPLE DAYS, MARY ARDEN’S FARM NEAR STRATFORD-UPON-AVON Mark the last day of harvest with a traditional hiring fair and celebration of the English apple! Mary Arden’s Farm is a real Tudor farm where the birthplace of Shakespeare’s mother, Mary Arden, can be visited. Visit www.shakespeare.org.uk for more information on the farm and associated properties.

29 FESTIVE FRIDAY AND ILLUMINATED CHRISTMAS TRAIL, BATSFORD ARBORETUM (5pm-7pm).

Join us to celebrate the advent of Christmas with Batsford’s Festive Friday! Enjoy festive food in the Garden Terrace Café and find everything you need to make your home and garden really Christmassy. Find the illuminated reindeer hidden in the arboretum and visit Santa in his rather unusual grotto! Visit www.batsarb.co.uk for more information.

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Cotswold -Homes.com

Privilege carD

offers

CotOur swo Hom Privil esld

Car ege d is

FREE

Where can I get a PRIVILEGE CARD?

Pick one up from the offices of HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE in Bourton on the Water and Moreton in Marsh - it couldn’t be easier. (Not local? Simply register by clicking on the CotswoldHomes Club button at www.cotswold-homes.com.) You will receive a monthly e-mail with a list of offers like the ones in this magazine, all from independent North Cotswold businesses.

Shop local and save money!

With a bumper selection of Autumn offers from a host of local businesses, make sure you pick up your card as soon as possible!

Moving House?

Then contact the Conveyancing Experts and get 15% off our standard legal fees!

Call 01452 657950 for further details Thomas Legal Group is a dedicated provider of conveyancing services in and around the Cotswolds Tel: 01452 657950 Web: www.thomaslegalgroup.co.uk E-mail: info@tlg.uk.com

15% Off A La Carte Menu (excluding beverages). Mon to Thurs – Valid until the end of November 2013.

01386 853555 The Green, 20 High Street, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7DT

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Cotswold -Homes.com

Free filter coffee with every cake purchased over £2.50.

Mon - Fri only.

Tel: 01608 652060 www.cacaobean.co.uk Cacao Bean, Carfax House, High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0AT

New Patient Examinations for only £57.00 (normally £86.00).

With a free Denplan Examination. Ask Penny for details.

Valid until the end of November 2013.

Trevor Bigg Breakspeare House, Shipton Road, Milton-Under-Wychwood, Oxford, OX7 6JW 01993 831396

10% off any orders online over £10 of all Cotswold Gold products. Visit www. cotswoldgold.co.uk

Discount Code: COTSHOMES2013 (Valid until the end of November 2013) Cotswold Gold East Lodge Farm, Stanton, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7NH, 07867 938 221

Enjoy a complimentary small glass of house wine when ordering from our bar menu.

Available every day – cannot be combined with any other promotions.

Valid until the end of November 2013.

The Mill House Hotel Station Road Kingham OX7 6UH 01608 658188

Cotswold -Homes.com

COTSWOLD

SHEPHERDS HUTS

Sabina Marland VODDER TRAINED IN SPECIALISED MASSAGE.

20% off FIRST MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE. Tel: 07946 915317 www.sabinamarland.co.uk

20% off when staying two

nights or more in our cosy Cotswold Shepherds Hut. Valid until the end of November 2013.

01453 883515 Cotswold Shepherd’s Huts, Sarratt, Keble Road, France Lynch, Nr. Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 8LN

Fusion Hair Salon 25% Off a bottle of Moroccan oil with any highlights, tints or colours.

(Oil £22.50 normally £30) Until the end of November 2013.

01451 810781 Unit 2 Moore Road, Bourton on the Water, Cheltenham, Glos, GL54 2AZ

20% off surveys

Privilege card discount must be requested before quote is provided, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers, discounts or promotions, valid until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01285 640840 Central Surveying, 17 Black Jack Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2AA

£30 Off

when booking a Full Health, Fitness & Wellbeing Assessment.

Tel: 01386 701231 Unit 6, Draycott Business Village Draycott, Nr Moreton in Marsh Gloucestershire, GL56 9JY

Bourton-on-the-Water

10% off everything in store, perfect gifts for friends and family.

Until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01451 822800 Box of Delights, High Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AQ

Free property appraisals, free photographs and up to £500 cash back for new joiners.

Until the end of November 2013.

www.character-cottages.com and owners@character-cottages.com

20% off all Karndean Flooring excludes fitting and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

Tel: 01242 521 273 The Brown Barn, Longacre Farm, Brockhampton Lane, Gloucestershire, GL51 9RS

Robert Boswell Design Consultancy 10% Off first fee invoice valid until November 2013.

Robert Boswell Design Consultancy Ltd. 01451 831921 - 07702 347424 rb@rbdconsultancy.co.uk

The Lamb Inn Great Rissington

20% Off

Seasonal discount.

GP & J Baker Fabric.

01993 822385 Mob - 07976 353 996 Fulbrook, Nr Burford, Oxfordshire 0X18 4DE

15% off all food MondaySaturday cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers or set menus - Until the end of November 2013 Tel: 01451 820388 The Lamb Inn, Great Rissington, Gloucestershire, GL54 2LP

Victoria Coffee House

20% off all drinks Valid until 30/11/2013

Tel: 01608 651191 16 High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0AF

Privilege Card Offers The Spice Room

10% Discount off all new furniture and fabric.

Valid until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01608 659091 5 Threshers Yard, West Street, Kingham Oxfordshire, OX7 6YF

Free preliminary design service.

Chance to win £350.00 gift voucher for Eckington Manor Cookery School, all approved project enquiries will be entered for a draw early November 2013.

01242 621190 Alderwood Construction, Unit 5 Gamma, Orchard Industrial Estate, Toddington, Gloucestershire, GL54 5EB

R&D WALKER T/A P Checketts

20% off all Gammon Joints.

24 High Street Moreton-in-Marsh Gloucestershire GL56 OAF 01608 651002

20% Off

our premium made-tomeasure hardwood window shutters. Call for a free no obligation survey & quote.

Tel: 01242 649592 37 Eldon Road, Cheltenham. GL52 6TX

20% Off a course of 6 private lessons.

01242 673542 - 07921951477 www.prescottshooting.com dan@prescottshooting.com

CAFÉ & INDIAN RESTAURANT

10% Discount

on all orders over £10 (collection only – cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers) valid until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01608 654204 3 Oxford Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucester, GL56 0LA

Free bag of Cornish Gold daffodil bulbs (RRP £5.99) when you spend £20 in Batsford’s Garden Shop - valid from 24/08/13 while stocks last.

Tel: 01386 701441 Batsford Arboretum & Garden Centre, Batsford Park, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9AB

Pinnock Wood Farm, Cheltenham, Nr Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, GL54 5AX

10% Off food at the Grapevine until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01451 830344 Sheep Street, Stow on the Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1AU

24 Hour Taxi Service 50% off returns following an outbound journey within a 20 mile radius of Bourton-onthe-Water. Valid until the end of November 2013.

01451 820778 07585 308838 www.hopeprivatehire.com

The Fox at Broadwell 10% Off all food Monday to Friday.

Excludes set menus and beverages Valid until the end of November 2013.

The Fox at Broadwell The Green Broadwell Moreton in Marsh Glos GL56 0UF 01451 870 909

20% Reduction on stock cabinets, tables & shelves.

Valid until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01608 650567 Fosseway Business Park, Stratford Road, Moretonin-Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9NQ

15% off all food and drink

Valid until the end of November 2013. Excludes any other offers, promotions and set menus - booking advisable 01451 832010 10 Talbot Court, Stow on the Wold, GL54 1BQ

Cotswold -Homes.com

10%

Discount on all takeaway orders

(Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers). Valid until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01608 651 015 Lion House, High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0LH

15% Off all food – excludes drinks & set menus

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until the end of November 2013.

01993 823151 Burford House Hotel, 99 High Street, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4QA

10% off bespoke English painted kitchens and Eggersmann German contemporary kitchens.

Tel: 01993 824 334 www.closa.co.uk 33 High Street, Burford, OX18 4QA

Stratford Branch

10% off throughout the store for privilege card holders.

Until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01789 415302 Box of Delights, 54 Henley Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warks, CV37 6PT

10% Off

everything in store (except Annie Sloan range and ‘spotted’ items) – Fantastic vintage gifts for your home, family and friends.

Tel: 01451 832000 8 Park Street, Stow on the Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1AQ

20% Off all adult and children’s horse & pony courses, in our new purpose built classroom!

Valid 01.09.2013 to 30.11.2013.

Tel Pat on: 07811 339 162 01608 674867 Durham’s Farm Riding School, Chastleton, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0SZ

10% Off your food bill at L’Anatra Italian Kitchen.

Drinks not included, not available to use Friday or Saturday evenings.

Tel: 01451 820 286 E-mail: info@chesterhousehotel.com www.chesterhousehotel.com The Chester House Hotel, Victoria Street, Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, GL54 2BU

VAT Free on our Famous Art Deco GWR Bench until the end of November 2013.

01608 652505 12 Fosseway Business Park, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9NQ

Adam Tatlow Photography

3 for the price of 2

(normally 5.99 each), on LEVINGTON MULTIPURPOSE with JOHN INNES COMPOST Tel: 01608 651 757 info@fossewaygardencentre.co.uk Stow Road, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0DS

20% Off everything or 25% off items over £100

(available on all direct purchases with Adam Tatlow).

07774285459 cotswoldkeeper@aol.com

5% Discount for first orders, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Valid until the end of November 2013.

Tel: 01386 701 079 www.mikehonourwindows.co.uk Unit 85, Northwick Business Centre, Blockley, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9RF

Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses HOMES AND GARDENS Design Inspiration and Property Services

ARCHITECTS Randell Burton Architects, Chipping Norton and Devon 01608 644573/01884 254465 Randell Burton Ltd is an RIBA Chartered Practice with offices in Devon and The Cotswolds and serves an extensive client base in both areas.

W: www.randellburton.co.uk E: office@randellburton.co.uk

BATHROOMS The Bathroom Studio: 01386 47234 Our business is to design, supply and install bathrooms and with over 29 years of experience we pride ourselves on being able to provide a service that that is second to none.

W: www.the-bathroomstudio.co.uk E: thebathroomstudio@btconnect.com

BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS Alderwood Construction Ltd: 01242 621190 A family building firm near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire creating high quality homes, renovations and extensions in the Cotswold area.

W: www.alderwoodconstruction.co.uk E: info@alderwoodconstruction.co.uk Cotswold Building Contractors: 01386 840484 A local, friendly and trustworthy building and development service with a high degree of expertise and excellent workmanship.

E: neil.plumb@btconnect.com Cox’s ArchitecturalYard: 01608 652505 Cox’sYard offer a constantly changing stock of architectural salvage, antiques and artefacts backed up by full restoration services.

W: www.coxsarchitectural.co.uk E: info@coxsarchitectural.co.uk Domestic Tank Services Water Storage, Diesel, Oil, Bespoke Tanks: 01386 853030 We are a young and dynamic company, whose team is built on the knowledge of over 30 years of experience.

W: www.domestictankservices.com E: info@domestictankservices.com Four Shires Construction Ltd: 01451 850905 / 07879 473349 Four Shires Construction Ltd specialise in premium Cotswold Barn Conversions and renovations. Bathrooms, Living, Gym and Sauna, Bedrooms, Dining, External.

W: www.fourshiresconstruction.co.uk E : josh@fourshiresconstruction.co.uk

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CARPETS AND FLOORING Becknell Services Flooring specialists: 01386 840484 Wood & Stone Floors Refurbished, Curtain Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Reach & Wash Window Cleaning.

E: neil.plumb@btconnect.com Carpetwise, Curtainwise, Furniturewise, Stratford upon Avon 01789 299446 Carpetwise Stratford upon Avon,Warwickshire has grown to become one of the Midlands’ leading specialists in carpets, hard floor coverings, rugs, curtains, blinds, soft furnishings, and now furniture, stocking many well-known brands.

W: www.carpet-curtainwise.co.uk E: info@carpet-curtainwise.co.uk KC Carpets, Moreton in Marsh: 01608 650331 We are a family run business that has been offering the best in carpets, vinyl flooring and blinds since 1984.

W: www.kc-carpets.co.uk E: kccarpets@ymail.com Parsons Carpet & Flooring Specialists: Cheltenham: 01242 521273 Passionate about flooring and equally passionate about the quality of service that we provide to you!

W: www.parsonsflooring.com E: enquiries@parsonsflooring.com

DESIGNERS Cotswold Graphics, Moreton-in-Marsh. 01386 701222 Cotswold Graphics specialises in designing, manufacturing and installing innovative display products for local, national and international clients in a wide range of markets.

W: www.cotswold-graphics.co.uk E: martin@cotswold-graphics.co.uk Robert Boswell Design, Stow on the Wold 01451 831921 A complete design and specification service to the residential, retail and contract markets.

W: www.rbdconsultancy.com E: rb@rbdconsultancy.co.uk

FIREPLACES Greyhound Stoves.

Blackwell: 01608 682628 We are a Fireplace Stove Studio - our showroom features over 50 displays which include multi-fuel / wood burning stoves and stone and wood fireplace surrounds.

W: www.greyhoundstoves.com E: greyhoundstoves@btconnect.com

FURNITURE Baroque Ardor – unique hand painted furniture: 07595 894676 / 07920 112252 A successful partnership of interior designers who are dedicated to creating unique, hand painted furniture.

W: www.baroque-ardor.co.uk E: info@baroque-ardor.co.uk Sebastian Sellers, Northleach: 01451 861864 Mike Sellers Smith & his team at Sebastian Sellers have over 30 experience in the planning & creation of individually

designed & handmade furniture.

E: information@sebastiansellers.co.uk Westcote Design, Kingham: 01608 659091 We produce a comprehensive range of sofas, sofa beds, footstools, headboards and bespoke furniture manufactured by a small talented team.

W: www.westcotedesign.co.uk E: info@westcotedesign.co.uk

GARDENS Annie Pearce, Garden Design: 07973 137808 I work with you personally to help you create your own beautiful, unique garden that I hope will truly enhance your life.

W: www.anniepearce.co E: annie@anniepearce.co Batsford Arboretum & Garden Centre: 01386 701 441 For quality plants, gorgeous gifts and garden sundries, locally sourced home-baked food and beautiful shabby chic ideas from the Applestore shop.

W: www.batsarb.co.uk E: arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk Fosseway Garden Centre, Moreton in Marsh: 01608 651757 A large garden centre offering gardening, pets, gifts and everything to do with outdoor living, plus a great cafe.

W: www.fossewaygardencentre.co.uk E: jo.creek@fossewaygardencentre.co.uk Lonstone: Garden Landscaping, Longborough: 01451 830140 Manufacturers of premium quality garden landscaping products, including paving and exclusive reproduction Lonstone Vintage Planters and feature pieces.

W: www.lonstone.co.uk E: info@lonstone.co.uk Treetech Arboricultural Services Ltd, Chipping Norton: 01608 644490 Professional, efficient service with consistent quality standards for all aspects of tree care.

W: www.treetech.co.uk E: ben@treetech.co.uk

INTERIORS Amanda Hanley By Design: 01993 822385 / 07976 353996 An independent and professional service for all of your interior design projects.

W: www.amandahanley.co.uk E: amanda@amandahanley.co.uk Angela Hay Curtains & Blinds: 01386 700692 Hand made Curtains & Roman Blinds, based in the Cotswolds.

W: www.angelahaycurtainsandblinds.com E: r.barrett200@btinternet.com Bower Willis Designs 01608 690870 Kitchen Design, Stratford upon Avon,Warwickshire & Cotswolds.

W: www.bowerwillisdesigns.co.uk E: studio@bowerwillisdesigns.co.uk

Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses Closa Burford, 01993 824334 Closa provide traditional and contemporary furniture including dining tables and chairs, sumptuous sofas, comfy chairs, sideboards, beds, mirrors and lighting.

W: www.closa.co.uk E: info@closa.co.uk Pippa Paton Design: 01993 220 721 / 07836 793 624 A specialist in contemporary Cotswolds interior design creating beautiful, exceptional homes, which enhance the lives of those who live in them.

W: www.pippapatondesign.co.uk E: scott@pippapatondesign.co.uk Shuttercraft: 01242 649592 Shuttercraft offer you the UK’s widest and best quality range of internal plantation shutters and made-to-measure wood slat venetian blinds.

W: www.shuttercraft.co.uk E: enquiries@shuttercraft.co.uk Unfitted: Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire: 01608 650065 With over 35 years’ experience, Unfitted create handmade to order furniture using time-honoured cabinet making techniques, and are dedicated to creating bespoke furniture designed to give you years of reliable service.

W: www.unfitted.co.uk E: info@unfitted.co.uk

HOUSE SITTERS Ticketyboo House Sitters, Barnwood, Gloucestershire: 01452 790104 If you are going on holiday, on business or leaving your home for any reason,Ticketyboo Housesitters offer you a personal house and pet sitting service.

W: www.ticketyboo-housesitters.co.uk E: info@ticketyboo-housesitters.co.uk

OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE The Real Pizza Oven Company Ltd, Broadway: 01242 603756 Artisan handmade traditional wood fired pizza ovens for sale or party hire. For the ultimate garden leisure experience, entertain your friends and family with delicious pizzas, home cooked breads and roast meats.

W: www.threalpizzaovencompany.com E: info@therealpizzaovencompany.com

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Leave It to Us -Cotswolds: 01451 830199 Professional Cleaning - Property Maintenance - Home Makeovers - Quality Interior Decorating, Residential Property Finder, Specialising in Cotswold properties.

W: www.leaveittous.biz E: enquiries@leaveittous.biz

SWIMMING POOLS FiveValleys Natural Pools: Swimming Pools: 01453 884881 / 07714 236211 In partnership with Biotop: Design & Construct eco friendly natural swimming pools.

W: www.fivevalleysnaturalpools.co.uk E: mail@fivevalleysnaturalpools.co.uk

WINDOWS Mike Honour Windows, Blockley: 01386 701079 When you choose Lattice Period Windows for your windows you can be sure that you are selecting the best combination of craftsmanship, style and durability.

W: www.mikehonourwindows.co.uk E: sales@mikehonourwindows.co.uk

LIVING IN THE COTSWOLDS Leisure, lifestyle and business

ARTISTS AND CRAFTSMEN Adam Tatlow – Wildlife Photography: 07774 285 459 Cotswold Keeper Photography by Adam Tatlow; photography of all animals wild and free, taken in the stunning countryside near to Guiting Power in the heart of the Cotswolds.

W: www.cotswoldkeeperphotography.com E: cotswoldkeeper@aol.com Celia Lendis Contemporary – Artist 01608 650852 Celia Lendis Contemporary represents artists of integrity whose work expresses and authentic vision, commitment to craftsmanship and an intellectual engagement with the world.

W: www.celialendis.com E: gallerycelialendis.com Jessica Leighton – Artist 07805 813746 Full of colour and texture, Jessica uses a mixture of media to create paintings that portray the ever changing seasonal fields and crops. Greeting cards and prints are available.

W: www.jessicaleighton.com E: jessicaleighton@me.com Lindy Allfrey, Stow-on-the-Wold 01451 832440 Portrait Painter & Portrait Workshops.

W: www.lindyallfrey.co.uk E: lindyallfrey@btopenworld.com Robin Furlong - Furniture Designer 01608 650567 Robin Furlong is a furniture designer of distinction, whose work represents some of the finest style and craftsmanship of its age.

W: www.robinfurlongfurniture.co.uk E: robin@robinfurlongfurniture.co.uk Tilly Tayler-Levy – Equine and Canine Artist: 07769 896 966 Tilly specialises in equine and canine portraiture in both oil and pastel as well as and sculpture in bronze.

E: georgia-tl@hotmail.co.uk

Whichford Pottery 01608 684416 Working as a team of potters, decorators and apprentices, we are committed to excellent craftsmanship and design.

W: www.whichfordpottery.com E: flowerpots@whichfordpottery.com

CHARITIES Well Child: 0845 458 8171 Cheltenham-based national children’s charity committed to improving the treatment and quality of care for children throughout the UK. Chief Executive – Colin Dyer. Patron – Prince Harry.

W: www.wellchild.org.uk

EQUESTRIAN CENTRES Overdale Equestrian Centre, Nether Westcote: 01993 832520 Overdale Equestrian Centre is unique in its focus on teaching riders the HOW of riding, improving balance, skill and confidence.

W: www.overdale-equestrian.co.uk E: karin@overdale-equestrian.co.uk Durham’s Farm – Horse/Pony Riding: 01608 674 867 / 07811 339 162 A well-established, successful, fun riding school and livery yard; experienced, qualified and friendly instructors teaching a wide range of activities for all ages, all year round W: www.cotswoldriding.com E: info@cotswoldriding.com

ESTATE AGENTS Bloor Homes Moreton Park Moreton in Marsh 01608 651000 Bloor Homes today is one of the largest privately owned house building groups, building in excess of 2,000 new homes each year.

W: www.bloorhomes.com E: moretonpark@bloorhomes.com Bovis HomesVictory Fields Upper Rissington 01451 822977 From apartments to large family homes, Bovis build some of the best new homes in the UK and offers stunning all new inclusive specifications.

W: www.bovishomes.co.uk E: info.southwest@bovishomes.com Fine & Country Estate Agents: LONDON Represented in the North Cotswolds by HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE James von Speyr, Director 01451 833170; james@harrisonjameshardie.co.uk Karen Harrison, Director 01608 651000; karen@harrisonjameshardie.co.uk Award-winning, international agency for upper quartile residential property in the UK and abroad - Superior town residences, luxury new-build properties and classic country homes.

W: www.fineandcountry.co.uk Harrison James & Hardie Estate Agents – North Cotswolds Moreton in Marsh: 01608 651000 moreton@harrisonjameshardie.co.uk

www.cotswold-homes.com 123

Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses Bourton on the Water: 01451 822977; bourton@harrisonjameshardie.co.uk Residential Lettings: 01451 833177; caroline@harrisonjameshardie.co.uk The Leading Estate Agency specialising in Residential Sales and Lettings W: www.cotswold-homes.com Sovereign Living, Moreton Park Moreton in Marsh 01608 651000 Affordable new homes in Moreton Park, Moreton in Marsh

FINANCIAL SERVICES JEM Financial Planning: Cotswolds: 01386 840777 John Magee, an Independent Financial Adviser, and Sue Ellis, a Mortgage Broker, offer friendly, professional advice.

W: www.johnny-magee.co.uk E: john@jemfinancial.co.uk Philip Hanley Financial Services, Fulbrook: 01993 824680 Independent Financial Adviser providing investment, pensions and mortgage advice.

W: www.pjamesfs.com E: philip@pjamesfs.com

FINE FOOD AND DRINK SUPPLIERS Cotswold Gold, Stanton: 07867938221 Cotswold Gold is a Natural Extra Virgin Rapeseed Oil, extracted using traditional cold pressing.

W: www.cotswoldgold.co.uk E: charlie@cotswoldgold.co.uk R&D Walker T/A P Checketts Moreton in Marsh: 01608 651002 Butcher’s providing seasonal meats, game (when in season), local venison, local beef, lamb and pork.

W: www.cotswold-homes.com Simon Weaver – Cotswold Organic Dairy, Upper Slaughter We proudly follow a traditional method of organic farming, and place great store in caring for the land and animal welfare.

01451 870852 E: info@turnstonefarming.co.uk W: www.simonweaver.net The Cotswold Brewing Company, Bourton on the Water: 01451 824488 A family owned and run brewery which supplies kegged and bottled lagers, wheat beer, stout and cider to pubs, restaurants and hotels in the Cotswolds.

W: www.cotswoldbrewingcompany.co.uk E: sales@cotswoldlager.com The Cotswold Food Store & Café: 01451 830469 The Cotswold Food Store and Café is a must-visit farm shop situated in a traditional Cotswold stone barn.

W: www.cotswoldfoodstore.co.uk E: office@cotswoldfoodstore.co.uk

HOLIDAY COTTAGE MANAGEMENT Character Cottages, Cotswolds: 08456 808029 Character Cottages is a distinctive, full service holiday lettings

124 Cotswold Homes Magazine

business, with a focus on letting and managing fabulous country homes.

W: www.character-cottages.com E: enquiries@character-cottages.com

MARKETING Cotswold-Homes.com: North Cotswolds: 01608 653899 Innovative, multi-media marketing for independent North Cotswold businesses.

W: www.cotswold-homes.com Marketing: collette@cotswold-homes.com Editorial: matt@cotswold-homes.com Social media: riyad@cotswold-homes.com

NURSERIES AND SCHOOLS Bloxham School, Bloxham Oxfordshire 01295 720222 Bloxham School is a small, friendly and flourishing coeducational boarding and day school of around 420 pupils.

W: www.bloxhamschool.com E: registrar@bloxhamschool.com Cotswold School – Bourton on the Water: 01451 820 554 / 01451 820 938 A popular, happy, and successful 11-18 Academy status school set in beautiful rural surroundings, with an excellent reputation for academic success.

W: www.cotswold.gloucs.sch.uk E: admin@mail.cotswold.gloucs.sch.uk Stepping Stones & Woodland Adventure Holiday Club: 01451 820 345 Professional high quality care and education tailored to Children’s and Parents’ individual needs, implementing the EarlyYears Foundation Stage and all the requirements of Ofsted.

W: steppingstonesnursery-cotswolds.co.uk E: info@steppingstonesnursery-cotswolds.co.uk The Barn Nursery, Bourton-on-the-Water: 01451 822 224 The Barn Nursery is a family-run nursery school and day nursery offering full-time and sessional daycare for children aged from 3 months to 5 years W: www.cotswold-homes.com E: mrs_cort@yahoo.co.uk

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Maggie Minter, Bourton on the Water Peak performance and high growth coaching.

01451 810500 W: www.maggieminter.co.uk E: maggie@maggieminter.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHERS Louise Bowles Photography, Blockley: 01386 701520 Professional photographer whose services include Family Photographs,Weddings, Family Portraits, Newborn and Events, Studio in Blockley.

W: www.louisebowlesphotography.com E: info@louisebowlesphotography.com Sarah Farnsworth Photography, Moreton in Marsh: 01608 652 918 / 07921 196 032

Commissions include rural nature, candid portraiture, product photography, landscapes, lifestyle & interiors, and sporting events amongst others.

W: www.sarahfarnsworth.co.uk E: info@sarahfarnsworth.co.uk

REMOVAL COMPANIES Cotswold Carriers Removals Limited, Chipping Norton: 01608 730500 We are a family-run business, operating 7 vehicles of varying sizes.

W: www.cotswoldcarriers.co.uk E: bill@cotswold-carriers.com

RUGBY Gloucester Rugby Club, Gloucester Our famed grounds host the best rugby every season!

0871 871 8781 W: www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk E: admin@gloucesterrugby.co.uk

SHOOTING SCHOOLS Prescott Hill Shooting, Based at Ford Prescott Shooting specialises in providing the ultimate shooting experience both at our shooting school in the Cotswolds or at a stately home or castle!

01242 673542 W: www.prescottshooting.com E: dan@prescottshooting.com

SOLICITORS Bower & Bailey Solicitors Banbury, Oxford, Swindon,Witney: 01993 705095 At Bower & Bailey we offer a broad range of legal services designed to respond to the needs of both private and commercial clients.

W: www.bowerandbailey.co.uk E: witney@bowerandbailey.co.uk Kendall & Davies Solicitors, Cotswolds: 01451 830295 From our four offices we offer friendly, client-focussed services related to property, business and family matters.

Bourton, Stow, Moreton and Burford.

W: www.kendallanddavies.co.uk E: stow@kendallanddavies.co.uk Thomas Legal Group, Gloucestershire: 01452 657950 Dedicated provider of conveyancing services in and around the Cotswolds, offering top quality service and FIXED PRICE conveyancing.

W: www.thomaslegalgroup.co.uk E: sharon.foote@thomaslegalgroupuk.com

SURVEYORS Central Surveying, Cirencester: 01285 640840 Chartered Surveyors, Building Surveyors and Property Consultants for London and the South West.

W: www.centralsurveying.co.uk E: office@centralsurveying.co.uk

Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses TAXIS

FASHION AND JEWELLERY

GIFT SHOPS

Hope Private Hire -Taxi Service: The Cotswolds: 01451 820778 / 07585308838 A reliable, punctual service available 24 hours a day, offering: Airport Transfers, Castles, Races, Seaport Transfers, Gardens and Tours of the Cotswolds.

W: www.hopeprivatehire.com E: andrew@hopeprivatehire.com

Brocks Menswear Stow on the Wold and Cirencester: 01451 831200 The theme is ‘smart casual’ and includes shirts, Polos, Knitwear,Trousers & Jeans, Jackets & Coats & Footwear.

W: www.brocksmenswear.co.uk E: stow@brocksmenswear.co.uk

Box of Delights Bourton on the Water: 01451 822800 Box of Delights offers a range of beautiful contemporary gifts, greeting cards, Jewellery, home decorations.

W: www.boxofdelights.biz E: enquiries@boxofdelights.biz

THEATRE & CINEMA Chipping Norton Theatre: 01608 642350 We are a theatre, an art-house cinema, a gallery and a concert hall.

W: www.chippingnortontheatre.co.uk E: boxoffice@chippingnortontheatre.com The Regal Cinema, Evesham Revamped and relaunched art deco cinema with café and latest releases.

01386 421007 W: theregal.ac E: boxoffice@theregal.ac

TRANSPORT William Gilder Ltd, Cheltenham: 01242 620677 William Gilder Ltd has proudly provided specialist transportation services for over 25 years. Disposal, Painting, Storage,Transport W: www.williamgilder.co.uk E: theboss@wgilder.co.uk

THE HIGH STREET Day-to-day essentials, occasional luxuries

ANTIQUES Styles of Stow, Stow on the Wold: 01451 830 455 An extensive selection of rare and unusual grandfather clocks standing alongside other fine antique timepieces.

Repairs and restoration carried out on site by our highly qualified craftsmen.

W: www.stylesofstow.com E: info@stylesofstow.co.uk

DENTISTS Milton Dental Practice, Milton-under-Wychwood: 01993 831396 Milton Dental Practice is a private practice dealing with all aspects of dental treatment.

W: www.drbigg.com E: reception@drbigg.com

Foundation, Stow on the Wold and Cheltenham: 0845 388 7336 Clothing & Accessories for Modern Living W: www.shopfoundation.com E: info@shopfoundation.com

Box of Delights - Stratford Stratford-upon-Avon : 01789 415302 Box of Delights offers a range of beautiful contemporary gifts, greeting cards, Jewellery, home decorations.

W: www.boxofdelights.biz E: enquiries@boxofdelights.biz

The Cotswold Tailor Woodstock: 01993 358284 The Cotswold Tailor sells unique contemporary men’s and women’s clothing tailored in traditional tailored British cloths.

(Aptus Suits) W: thecotswoldtailor.com E: info@thecotswoldtailor.com

The Cedars Bourton on the Water: 01451 822 399 The Cedars offers something for everyone, providing gift inspiration from unique colourful wall art and decorative tea light holders.

W: www.cotswold-homes.com E: cedargifts@btinternet.com

FITNESS AND BEAUTY

HEALTH

Cotswold Leisure, Bourton on the Water: 01451 824024 Cotswold Leisure Bourton offers a range of facilities to suit all ages and abilities.

W: www.cotswold.gov.uk E: bourton.leisurecentre@cotswold.gov.uk

Sabina Marland Lymphatic Drainage Massage: 01285 821759 Sabina works in the heart of the Cotswolds and specialises in Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Dr Hauschka and Indian Head Massage.

W: www.sabinamarland.co.uk E: Sabina@sabinamarland.co.uk

Cotswold Leisure, Chipping Campden 01386 841595 Cotswold Leisure, Chipping Campden provides indoor sports, recreation and leisure opportunities for the north Cotswold area.

W: http://cotswoldleisure.org/chipping-campden E: chippingcampdensportscentre@cotswold.gov.uk Fusion Unisex Hair Salon Bourton-on-the-Water: 01451 810781 Fusion hair salon specialises in cuts, re-styles, colours, and special occasions. Open daily from 9am, conveniently located just off the High Street.

W: www.cotswold-homes.com Personal Best Fitness Studio, Chipping Campden 01386 840437 A brand new studio in Chipping Campden offering everything from gym membership, personal training, sports and remedial massage and a whole range of classes!

W: www.pbfitnessstudio.com E: info@pbfitnessstudio.com Rapid FX Personal Fitness, Draycott: 01386 701231 Rapid FX personal training is dedicated to offering professional personal assistance to fitness and wellbeing within the North Cotswolds.

W: www.rapid-fx.com E: tim@rapid-fx.com

FLORISTS Cotswold Flowers, Bourton on the Water: 01451 821306 Family run florist offering local, national and international delivery six days a week.Wedding Florist, Funeral, Local Delivery, Hand Tied Bouquets.

W: www.cotswoldflowers.co.uk E: info@cotswoldflowers.co.uk

RECREATIONAL Broadway Gun Room, Broadway: 01386 852 519 New addition to the picturesque village of Broadway.

Stocking new & used Shotguns, Air Rifles, Ammunition, Dog Training Equipment and Masters Range of Dog Food.

W: www.broadwaygunroom.co.uk E: sales@broadwaygunroom.co.uk

TRAVEL Holidays Please: 01451 810255 Holidays Please is an award winning ABTA travel agent who are available even when the high street is closed!

W: www.holidaysplease.co.uk E: Debbie@holidaysplease.com

VISITING THE COTSWOLDS Where to stay, what to do, where to go?

Big Feastival The Big Feastival aims to raise funds for Jamie Oliver’s Better Food Foundation, with acts KT Tunstall,The Feeling, Basement Jaxx and many more performing this year.

W: www.jamieoliver.com/thebigfeastival E: info@big-feastival.co.uk Cotswold Shepherd’s Huts, Nr. Stroud 01453 883515/ 07971417177 Established in 2005 with over 70 satisfied customers, from the shores of Scotland to the tip of Cornwall, Cotswold Shepherd’s Huts have been used for a variety of purposes.

W: www.cotswoldshepherdshuts.co.uk E: enquiries@cotswoldshepherdshuts.co.uk

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Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses FAMILY DAYS OUT Cotswold Farm Park Guiting Power: 01451 850307 Cotswold Farm Park was the first Rare Breeds farm to open to the public. A total countryside experience in the heart of the Cotswolds W: cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk E: info@cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

Sitting in the hamlet of Ford, this popular 16th Century Inn is renowned for its excellent menu and fine Donnington ales.

W: www.theploughinnford.co.uk E: info@theploughinnford.co.uk

PUBS, TEA HOUSES AND RESTAURANTS

Russells’s of Broadway, Broadway 01386 853555 Russell’s of Broadway brings something special to the Cotswolds area, a superb dining experience with seven tastefully appointed bedrooms.

W: www.russellsofbroadway.co.uk E: info@russellsofbroadway.co.uk

Cacao Bean, Moreton in Marsh: 01608 652060 A Konditorei (German Pastry Shop) and Café that also provides celebration cakes made to order. Celebration cakes, Chocolates, Cakes,Truffles,Tarts, Fudge W: www.cacaobean.co.uk

Sitara, Moreton-in-Marsh 01608 651015 Sitara Restaurant is best known for serving fine Indian cuisine that is authentic and stands out from the rest. It is a great place to eat and entertain friends as well as business colleagues.

W: www.sitaramoretoninmarsh.com

Chester House Hotel, Bourton on the Water, 01451 821132 The Croft Restaurant opens at 9am for fabulous breakfasts, morning coffee and continues serving delicious food throughout the day and night W: www.chesterhousehotel.com

The Snowshill Arms, Snowshill: 01386 852653 A 13th Century pub, situated in the pretty, tranquil village of Snowshill. Beer garden, Function room, Donnington Ales, Children’s play area.

W: www.cotswold-homes.com

Le Manoir – Aux Quat’saisons (Raymond Blanc): 01844 278881 Created by celebrated chef Raymond Blanc, Le Manoir is renowned for offering one of Britain’s finest gastronomic experiences. Situated in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Great Milton.

W: www.manoir.com

The Spice Room, Moreton in Marsh: 01608 654204 The Spice Room brings the ultimate, authentic Indian fine dining expereince to the Cotswolds, and is deeply committed to setting the standards in excellence and quality.

W: www.spiceroomrestaurant.com

The Coach and Horses, Longborough: 01451 830325 A Cotswold village pub offering open fires, good food and award-winning Donnington ales brewed just a couple of miles away.

E: info@thecoachlongborough.com The Fox Inn, Broadwell: 01451 870909 The Fox is a friendly, family pub offering traditional pub food with beer garden, ideal for couples and families.

E: foxinnbroadwell@aol.com The Fox Inn, Great Barrington: 01451 844385 The Prettiest pub setting in the Cotswolds on the banks of the river Windrush - Bar Snack Menu, Riverside Dining, Traditional C17th Bar with local Ales, Ciders & Juices.

W: www.foxinnbarrington.com E: info@foxinnbarrington.com The Halfway House, Kineton: 01451 850344 The Half Way House is 17th Century Inn serving good traditional food, using local ingredients, and fine local ale.

W: www.thehalfwayhousekineton.co.uk The Lamb Inn, Great Rissington: 01451 820388 The Lamb Inn at Great Rissington is one of the Cotswolds’ most welcoming country inns situated in a beautiful village with lovely views from the garden.

W: www.thelambinn.com E: enquiry@thelambinn.com The New Inn, Willersey: 01386 853226 The New Inn is a lovely pub with plenty to do and has a games room & skittle alley! Traditional village pub, Function room, Donnington Ales.

W: www.newinnbroadway.co.uk E: info@newinnbroadway.co.uk The Plough Inn, Ford: 0800 066 3851

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Victoria Coffee House, Moreton-in-Marsh: 01608 651191 Victoria Coffee House is the perfect getaway for that great cup of coffee and a delectable pastry treat!

W: www.victoriacoffeehouse.co.uk E: enquiries@victoriacoffeehouse.co.uk TheVine Leaf, Stow-on-the-Wold: 01451 832010 The Vine Leaf. Here we serve good locally sourced food served all day - anything from delicious home made burgers to sandwiches, light lunches and main meals.

W: www.thevineleaf.co.uk E: thevineleaf@gmail.com

HOTELS Buckland Manor, Nr Broadway: 01386 852 626 Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, somewhere for a special event or celebration, or a quiet escape, Buckland Manor won’t disappoint.

W: www.bucklandmanor.co.uk E: info@bucklandmanor.co.uk Burford House Hotel A beautiful townhouse hotel rated AA 5 star with four poster beds and wicked cream teas!

01993 823151 E: stay@burfordhouse.co.uk W: www.burford-house.co.uk Lower Slaughter Manor, Lower Slaughter: 01451 820456 The epitome of country house chic; romantic getaways, restful breaks, conferences, and weddings, with exquisite dining also available to non residents.

W: www.lowerslaughter.co.uk E: mail@lowerslaughter.co.uk Mill House Hotel, Kingham 01608 658188 The Mill House offers the highest standards of hospitality, luxury and service.

W: www.millhousehotel.co.uk E: stay@millhousehotel.co.uk The Dial House Hotel & Restaurant

Bourton on the Water: 01451 822244 The Dial House Hotel demonstrates the best blend of traditional and modern to bring you the ultimate country hotel experience.

W: www.dialhousehotel.com E: info@dialhousehotel.com The Grapevine Hotel, Stow-on-the-Wold Set in this historic market town, a 17th century hotel renowned for its warm hospitality and delicious food.

01451 830344 W: www.thegrapevinehotel.com E: stay@thegrapevinehotel.com The Washbourne Court Hotel, Lower Slaughter: 01451 822 143 The 17th Century venue provides luxurious short breaks, conferences, and wedding receptions, catering for locals as well as guests.

W: www.washbournecourt.co.uk E: info@washbournecourt.co.uk Wyck Hill House Hotel & Spa, Stow on the Wold: 01451 831936 For somewhere to relax, to work, a place to celebrate or to combine all these things,Wyck Hill is the perfect venue.

W: www.wyckhillhousehotel.co.uk E: sales.wyckhillhousebespokehotels.com

WEDDINGS Beautylicious & Kate’s Hair Flair, Bourton-on-the-Water: 01451 820012 Beautylicious offers a full range of beauty treatments including facials, make up, massage, manicures, pedicures, nail treatments and hair removal.

W: www.beautylicious-bourton-co.uk E: beautyliciousbourton@gmail.com Jenny Edwards-Moss, Stow-on-the-Wold: 01451 870194 Jenny Edwards-Moss has been designing and making wedding outfits for the mother of the bride or groom for 20 years from her shop in Stow-on-the-Wold, working mainly with luxurious and colourful silks.

W: www.jennyedwardsmoss.co.uk E: jenny@jennyedwardsmoss.co.uk Julia Sibun, Stow on the Wold: 07974 778 806 Julia Sibun, a wedding planner based close to Stow-on-theWold, has been planning weddings for ten years.

W: www.juliasibum.co.uk E: julia@jsibun.co.uk Maggie Booth, Stroud: 01453 758621 Maggie Booth Photography – creating beautiful and thoughtful images that tell the story of your wedding day.

W: www.maggieboothphotography.co.uk Mudway Workman Marquees, Stoke Orchard: 01242 680 204 At Mudway Workman we provide marquee hire for functions of almost any size - for example, weddings, children’s parties, anniversaries, lunches, balls and corporate events.

W: www.mudwayworkman.co.uk E: enquiries@mudwayworkman.co.uk The Broadway Florist, Broadway: 01386 853000 Be inspired by The Broadway Florist’s gorgeous Flower Couture and Floral DECO collection detailing a selection of beautiful flowers for different occasions, scene setting and seasons.

W: www.broadway-florist.com E:info@broadway-florist.com