So many of us dream of writing to our idol, but few pluck up the courage to actually do so. If we can muster it, even fewer receive a response. I remember, aged 10, the excitement I felt when my favourite author, Helen Dunmore, wrote back to me. Imagine, then, how Eileen Elgar must have felt when she received a reply from J.R.R. Tolkien (1892-1973).

Elgar started corresponding with the author in her fifties on the advice of her daughter, who suggested she write to him with some of her questions about his books. Relationship established, Elgar went on to make suggestions on how Tolkien's works could be improved and this eventually led to the writer visiting Elgar at home, and the pair striking up a surprising friendship.

Now, six books, signed by the author, and five correspondents written by him to Elgar, are going up for auction with Sotheby’s.

Tolkien described Elgar, who lived in Bournemouth, as an ‘admirer’ of his in a letter to his grandson in 1963. He added that she was ‘highly intelligent & well read’ and ‘stone deaf’, which necessitated communication ‘by writing pad’.

An autographed note, tucked into a copy of Fellowship of the Ring, is clearly Tolkien's attempt to explain his thought process behind the mythic creations of the race of Dwarves, and includes ‘significant detail regarding Middle Earth Creation lore’. The book and note is part of a single lot of three volumes of The Lord of the Rings from 1961.

In a different title, The Adventures of Tom Bombadil, a loosely inserted letter references Tolkien's sadness at hearing of the death of C.S. Lewis.

William Passey, of Sotheby’s Books and Manuscripts Department says the most surprising thing about these correspondences is ‘how intimate they are, and how much time [Tolkien] was willing to devote to answering Eileen's questions in depth.’

He adds: ‘I suppose the lot that really stands out for me is the set of Lord of the Rings with the note about the creation of the race of the dwarves in it. What’s remarkable about that is the nerdy detail that Tolkien gets into, and obviously the fact that it is not a letter, but something that was written during the course of conversation.’

Elgar, who lived near the Hotel Miramar, where Tolkien and his wife would holiday each year, died in 1980. The letters date from 1961-4 and the works are spread across five lots (lots 83-87). In total, they are estimated to sell for around £39,000-55,000.

Tolkien, born John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, was best-known for his fantasy novels. He published The Hobbit in 1937 and the first part of The Lord of the Rings in 1954. He died in 1973 at the age of 81 in Bournemouth.

The demand for his work is still extremely high. In 2023, a second-edition set of Lord of the Rings books that were inscribed by Tolkien in Elvish sold for £95,250 with Sotheby's. The following year, a set of 21 Tolkien letters were sold by the auctioneers for £228,000. The Tolkien Society, founded in 1969, has around 4,000 members in more than 60 different countries and this year, The Lord of the Rings topped The Guardian readers’ top 100 novels of all time list.

Passey of Sotheby’s says: ‘It is worth noting that Tolkien has done exceptionally well at auction in recent years.’ He credits ‘millennial collectors, who are from outside the traditional book collecting world, and have maybe grown up watching the films,’ with this recent boom.

Tolkien expert Pieter Collier told The Observer, of Elgar: ‘I believe she was one of the very few people he could think of as a peer.’ He added that Elgar should ‘get much more credit and respect for her communications with [Tolkien]. He actually listened to what she said.’

‘One cannot help wondering what kind of scholar she might have become had deafness not isolated her from academic life.’

Elgar’s granddaughter, Helen Dutfield, told the BBC that Elgar had ‘a very rich imagination’ and was ‘fascinated by the ancient civilisations’. Of Tolkien, she added: ‘His wife was quite jealous and she was curious about who this woman was that he was going to talk to.

‘We laugh about that because my grandmother was old before her time, she was terribly intense — not the sort of person you could imagine he would have fancied.’

For more information about the sale, visit Sotheby’s website

The War of Independence that unfolded between 1775 and 1783 may have been American, but it rippled across the Atlantic Ocean onto European shores. With France weighing in on the side of the nascent US — and seizing the opportunity to try and reconquer territories that it had previously lost to Britain in India — a few naval battles took place off the Brittany coast.

In April 1782, in particular, two Royal Navy ships engaged with French vessels off Ushant, a French island at the mouth of the Channel, and HMS Foudroyant, under the command of captain John Jervis, captured the 74-gun Pégase. Shortly afterwards, the victorious British man o’ war escorted her prize into Portsmouth harbour, where hundreds of people awaited their arrival.

Among the crowd was probably Dominic Serres, one of the greatest marine painters of the late 18th century, whose son Dominique Michael served aboard Foudroyant. The artist captured the scene in a painting somewhat reminiscent of Canaletto’s style.

Foudroyant, herself originally a French ship, sails ahead in all her glory, Pégase jury-rigged behind her — beaten, the flag flying under the Royal Navy jack at the stem as white as her winged figurehead — against the backdrop of Portsmouth harbour seen from Gosport.

Serres made not one, but two versions of the painting. The first is at the Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide. Jervis, who was made a Knight of Bath for the victory and would later become 1st Earl of St Vincent after defeating a Spanish fleet off the cape of the same name in 1797, probably commissioned from the painter a larger version. This was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1793, but later passed down the generations and forgotten by the public.

‘It never left the family until last year and, in fact, had been hidden in a loft,’ says art dealer James Mitchell. It re-emerged in April 2025, when it was sold at Bonhams, and, now restored, is on offer with John Mitchell Fine Paintings.

This feature originally appeared in the July 1, 2026, issue of Country Life. Click here for more information on how to subscribe.

Jefferson, a small city in rural east Texas, US, is an unexpected place for an artistic discovery. Yet, it was there that an oil sketch by John Constable hid for decades in plain view. In 1970, the Jefferson Historical Society and Museum received from New York’s Newhouse Galleries what was then thought to be ‘the large sketch for a painting now in the National Gallery in London’, The Cornfield. Later, however, it was downgraded to one of the many copies of the Constable landscape — until 2017, when the museum requested an appraisal of its collection and auction-house specialists began suspecting there may be more to it.

Scientific tests have since revealed that materials and techniques showed ‘complete consistency’ with Constable’s work and the picture is now thought to have been the full-scale sketch of The Cornfield, about 1820–26, something the painter had done for all his six-footers, but which had been thought not to exist for this particular 4ft 8in by 4ft view of a Suffolk summer.

‘Previous commentators have talked at length about how Constable leapt from the small, preliminary works for The Cornfield directly to the finished painting,’ wrote in the catalogue painting conservator Sarah Cove, founder of the Constable Research Project and one of the two experts who appraised the painting, together with former Tate curator Anne Lyles. ‘Since the rediscovery of the full-size sketch, we now know that is incorrect.’

The picture will be the centrepiece of Heritage Auctions's Important European Art sale on June 5

This feature first appeared in the May 13, 2026, issue of Country Life. Click here for more information on how to subscribe.

Parliament Live TV is not a channel that Athena generally watches with much hope of enlightenment. Last week, however, the Communications and Digital Committee of the House of Lords took evidence from Margaret Hodge on her refreshingly honest review of Arts Council England (ACE). Broadcast of the session wasn’t gripping, but how refreshing to hear a thoughtful, informed and positive discussion on the theme of culture from Westminster.

As regards ACE itself, Baroness Hodge first made clear what she thought it should be: a non-governmental body responsible for funding and offering access to excellence in the Arts. It should, furthermore, be focused on the needs of those it supports — artists — and those it serves — the public — and have its character as an arm’s-length body reaffirmed. This was, she argued, necessary to avoid creativity being ‘stifled by political whim’. Later in the hearing, she made explicit reference to the now notorious intervention by the former Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries in ACE’s last funding round.

As well as touching on the frustrations felt by many who had recently sought funding from ACE, Baroness Hodge also spoke about the need to simplify the process by which it operated. She characterised its application process as ‘box-ticking’ and pointed out that there was now an industry simply in filling out the necessary forms, some of it actually paid for by ACE itself. The organisation’s approach, moreover, was characterised as ‘instrumentalist’. ‘Rather than celebrating excellence,’ she observed of ACE, ‘it’s trying to change society. Now, we all believe art changes society; we all believe it has an absolutely crucial role to play in that… but that shouldn’t be its focus and underpinning principle.’

Other suggested reforms included staggering application rounds, longer funding cycles and a division of responsibilities within the organisation to engage with national and local institutions; and that the first scrutiny of applications should involve artists so that there was an informed response to proposals. Local Arts could be encouraged by funding of individuals and there should be more support for regional tours by larger cultural organisations — all very sensible.

On the subject of funding, two themes emerged. One was that there was an urgent need to encourage private philanthropy outside London and the South-East, which currently enjoys the lion’s share of such support. In this regard, Baroness Hodge deprecated the effects of cancel culture and the way it discourages corporations from supporting the Arts. More generally, she acknowledged that, in the present circumstance, the Government was not going to provide extra money for the Arts. Consequently, she argued — surely correctly — the most promising means of improving Arts funding is reform of the tax system; tailor tax relief correctly and it becomes a mechanism both for incentivising philanthropy and reducing the costs and overheads of cultural institutions. Athena couldn’t agree more. The problem is, will the Treasury listen?

This feature originally appeared in the April 22, 2026, issue of Country Life. Click here for more information on how to subscribe.

Frederic Leighton worshipped beauty, so he built himself a shrine to it. In 1877, he had commissioned his ‘little addition’, as he called his Arab Hall with exquisite understatement, ‘for the sake of something beautiful to look at once in a while’. ‘Not for library, not for reception hall, not for cosey sanctum, was it made,’ wrote a palpably astonished Virginia Butler in Lippincott’s Monthly Magazine in 1893: instead, its entire raison d’etre was to please the eye. By 1894, it had become ‘one of the most famous rooms in England’, according to The Illustrated American.

A newly opened exhibition at Leighton House, London W14 — accompanied by a book by Islamic art scholar Melanie Gibson, The Arab Hall, Frederic Leighton: Traveller and Collector — charts the Arab Hall’s development and explores its enduring influence through a short film and three installations by contemporary artists.

In 1864, Leighton bought a plot of land near Holland Park — an area increasingly popular with London’s art circles — and commissioned a house and studio from architect George Aitchison. The artist moved there in 1866, but, writes Dr Gibson, the house’s ‘construction and decoration were a continuous project on which he lavished attention and money throughout his life’. Leighton and Aitchison’s biggest undertaking was the Arab Hall, (which, incidentally, also proved rather more expensive, at more than £7,000, than the house had cost to build from scratch).

Inspired by the architecture they had seen on their travels — down to the crescent on the outside of the gilded dome, which echoed those on mosques in Egypt or Syria — the new room housed the collection the artist amassed during his time in southern Europe and the Middle East. The interior was encrusted with more than 1,000 tiles, primarily from Persia, Damascus and Iznik, which were either acquired by Leighton himself or by his friends for him. Among others, Caspar Purdon Clarke, who would later become director of the South Kensington Museum (now the V&A), secured two panels with grape motifs.

Leighton and Aitchison also called on ceramicist William De Morgan to repair broken tiles, make replicas to fill gaps and, later, create new designs for the house’s Narcissus Hall and staircase. Illustrator Walter Crane was commissioned to create a gold mosaic frieze based on a photograph of the one in La Zisa in Palermo, Italy, one of the room’s most significant design inspirations. ‘I did not realise till many years afterwards, when I visited Palermo, how closely the plan and proportions of the old palace hall had been followed,’ he noted years later.

The Arab Hall’s floor mosaics harked back, at least in part, to those of Jerusalem’s Dome of the Rock, but, in the centre, Leighton and Aitchison cut a shallow fountain of the kind often seen in houses in Cairo. Beautiful as it was, however, it could also be a hazard for guests: ‘After a dinner party at which Sir E. Burne-Jones, Mr. Whistler, Mr. Albert Moore, and many others were present, I recollect how, when we were smoking and drinking coffee in this hall, somebody, excitedly discoursing, stepped unaware right into the fountain,’ wrote architect Samuel Pepys Cockerell in Ernest Rhys’s Frederic Lord Leighton: An Illustrated Record of His Life and Work.

‘Two large Japanese gold tench, whose somnolent existence was now for the first time made interesting, dashed about looking for an exit, and there was a general noise of splashing and laughter. The dark, apparently fathomless pool was rather a mistake. Mishaps like that just mentioned occurred, I believe, more than once.’ Rumour has it that, despite the rope encircling it, the fountain still claims the odd visitor to this day.

The Arab Hall: Past and Present' is at Leighton House and is available to visit until October 4.

This feature originally appeared in the March 25, 2026, issue of Country Life. Click here for more information on how to subscribe.

Transforming international public and private art collections

As the leading specialist in art lighting, TM Lighting is renowned for its award-winning, British-designed and manufactured LED lighting products for global private and public art collections.

The TM philosophy is based on the belief that when art is illuminated to its full potential, it can transform the viewing experience at home or in a gallery space. It also helps clients discover how exceptional lighting can elevate a single masterpiece to an entire art collection.

TM Lighting provides tailored solutions to an international client base that includes globally acclaimed artists (Damien Hirst, Conrad Shawcross and Antony Gormley), world-class public and private art collections, museums and many of the UK’s historic houses (Arundel Castle, Blenheim Palace and Kenwood House, for example) along with contemporary galleries.

Museum-quality

TM Lighting works with UK’s leading museums, institutions and organisations including The National Gallery, The Victoria & Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, The National Trust, English Heritage. It is also the official lighting partner for Somerset House.

British made

The TM Lighting product range is proudly designed and manufactured in central London, UK, now with CB international accreditation and UL Listing for the US.

Service excellence

Not only does TM Lighting design and manufacture its own range of products, but it also provides lighting as a personal, end-to-end design and advisory service to its international client base. This includes educating the client on how to light artwork and also focusing the lights to ensure the perfect lighting in the gallery or home setting.

#BringingArtToLight

tmlighting.com

At 125, one begins to feel one’s age, so the most elegant grand-dame of London’s museums, The Wallace Collection, is celebrating its anniversary with a ‘facelift’. The forthcoming renovation will make it more accessible, sustainable and enjoyable, but will do so subtly, keeping intact the character of its home, Hertford House.

The museum, which opened its doors on June 25, 1900, had already undergone major refurbishment ahead of its 100th anniversary — the Centenary Project extended the public space at Hertford House by almost a third — and its Great Gallery was overhauled in 2014, with smaller redecoration efforts taking place a few years ago during lockdown.

Masterminded by Selldorf Architects — fresh from revitalising The National Gallery’s Sainsbury Wing and The Frick Collection in New York — plus heritage specialist Purcell and learning-environment experts Lawson Ward Studio, the new project will further improve circulation, visitor experience and gallery spaces, as well as building a new learning centre.

‘We want every visitor — whether it’s their first visit or their 50th — to feel a sense of comfort and connection from the moment they walk through the door,’ explains The Wallace’s director, Xavier Bray. ‘That means rethinking the ground floor in particular: improving how people arrive, how they orientate themselves and how they move through the building.’

The refurbishment also offers an opportunity to bring new focus to spaces and objects that are now too easily overlooked because of poor lighting and display density. ‘If we can create a space that feels more welcoming, accessible and alive with possibility, while still honouring the intimacy and character of Hertford House, then we will have achieved something truly meaningful.’

Design development is currently under way and, once funding and the appropriate approvals are in place, the renovation is expected to take several years to complete. It is not yet confirmed whether the Wallace will have to close at any point. However, explains a museum spokesperson, ‘the intention is to keep the collection as accessible as possible throughout the works, which will be carefully phased to minimise disruption’.

Website: https://watlingreclamation.co.uk/

Telephone: 01327 811888

Email: sales@watlingreclamation.co.uk

Address: Watling Reclamation The Old Pump House Cuttle Mill Business Park Watling Street Nr Towcester Northamptonshire NN12 6LF

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WatlingReclamation

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watling_reclamation/?hl=en

Based in the South Midlands, Watling Reclamation is a renowned supplier of reclaimed building materials, passionately committed to sustainability within construction, and preserving the architectural heritage of the United Kingdom. Rooted in a profound respect for history and the environment, the company is built on the belief that sustainability and unique garden or building projects aren’t mutually exclusive. Indeed, they are complimentary activities, and reclaimed materials should be the default position for many projects. From small personal projects to small and medium scale housing developments, reclaimed materials can often bring history and aesthetics to fulfil requirements more completely than new products.

History

Founded in 2012 by Neill and Julie Taylor, Watling Reclamation began as a modest operation, selling surplus reclaimed materials from their development of an old Northamptonshire dairy farm into Pury Hill Business Park. Pury Hill is a unique, rural business park comprising over 50 commercial offices, and notable for its wide use of reclaimed building materials. Recognising the intrinsic value of these materials, the company sought to preserve and repurpose them rather than allow them to be discarded or crushed to rubble. Over the years, Watling Reclamation has grown from a small, local initiative into a respected name in the reclamation industry.

Architectural Materials

A large proportion of its extensive inventory focuses on architectural and landscaping materials such as reclaimed bricks, roofing tiles, building stone, and walling items such as pier caps and copings. Indeed, our collection of Staffordshire Blue wall copings is one of the largest in the country and the company strives to maintain its wide variety. 

Because building restoration and refurbishment can have restrictions on materials, Watling Reclamation works hard to carry as wide a selection of reclaimed materials as possible, with bricks a particular priority. In some instances, it’s not always possible to find an exact match, so we also carry new, replica bricks, can cut some stone items to suit specific projects, or will try to source items required. 

The four acre site caters to both individual homeowners and small to medium-scale developers alike. Watling Reclamation works with and regularly supplies stately homes, estate managers, restoration and development companies.

Gardens & Landscapes

With a wide customer base, from keen enthusiasts to such luminaries as Gold Medal winning, Chelsea Flower Show designer Tom Stuart-Smith, it’s no surprise to see that Watling Reclamation’s garden focus is on distinctive individual pieces. Reclaimed stone troughs, statuary and millstones sit alongside the UK’s largest contemporary terracotta planters and both Corten Steel and zinc focal points. In particular, stone troughs are a consistently robust segment of the business, with regular sourcing trips across the UK and Europe to keep pace with demand. We have our own suppliers of Italian terracotta planters, capable of producing pots large enough for a sizeable tree! 

Water is a common theme among the larger garden features stocked at the site. Stone fountains and troughs, hand carved stone apple presses and galvanised water tanks are in constant demand from garden designers, homeowners and even film production companies. Their projects range from individual homes to corporate sites and intriguing film sets!

When it comes to landscaping, a wide selection of reclaimed and new paving is always available, with a particular focus on reclaimed Yorkstone and new Limestone from our own suppliers in Rajasthan, India. Reclaimed Granite cobbles, Staffordshire Blue stable and diamond pavers are staples in this category and constantly being replenished.

Ethics and Values

The company takes its name from Watling Street, an ancient Roman road that runs from Dover to Shrewsbury and on which the reclamation yard is situated. This historical reference underscores Watling Reclamation's dedication to bridging the past and the present, enabling the survival of traditional building materials while embracing modern sustainability principles.

The company operates under a clear set of ethical principles that prioritise environmental stewardship, historical preservation, and community engagement. Central to Watling Reclamation's ethos is the commitment to reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency. Salvaging and reusing building materials, reduces the demand for new resources, minimising the environmental impact of relevant construction projects. So each brick, timber beam, or roofing slate the company can save represents a reduction in landfill and a step toward a circular economy.

Likewise, by recovering historical architectural elements, the company ensures this heritage is enjoyed by future generations. This approach preserves antique materials and provides contemporary builders with authentic materials that can’t easily be replicated by modern manufacturing techniques.

With this knowledge and extensive stockholding, Watling Reclamation works closely with local tradesmen to support the preservation of historical structures and promote sustainable building practices. The company also works with architects, builders, and designers to advise on the benefits and use of reclaimed materials within their specific projects.

The construction industry is one of the largest contributors to global waste and carbon emissions, and the company’s work addresses these challenges head-on. By salvaging materials that would otherwise be discarded, Watling Reclamation helps conserve natural resources and reduce the energy required to produce new building components. Moreover, the company’s process of sorting and grading reclaimed materials helps prepare them for reuse, extending their lifecycle and maximising their value.

For further information please visit watlingreclamation.co.uk

Website: www.ian-norrington.com

Telephone: 01747 840200

Email: sales@ian-norrington.com

Address: Holly Cottage, Coombe Street, Pen Selwood, Wincanton, Somerset, BA9 8NF

Ian Norrington specialises in beautifully handcrafted seal engraved signet rings and engraved cuff links. He is a liveryman of the prestigious Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths. A detailed coloured brochure with prices is available on request.

In addition to gold signet rings, Ian is also able to supply signet rings set with a semi-precious stones, such as bloodstone (dark green with red flecks), carnelian (dark red), onyx (black) or lapis lazuli (blue). A first-class engraving service is on offer as well.

Signet rings are generally seal engraved whereby a family crest or coat of arms is engraved on the surface of the ring in the negative — the wax impression comes out in the positive. They can also be surface engraved in the positive with initials and dates engraved under the head. Surface engraving is ideal for cufflinks.

Ian can supply gold oval (18 x 13 millimetre) chain-linked cufflinks in either 18 carat or 9 carat in yellow gold, white gold and silver. He is happy to quote for engraved, or un-engraved, eighteen or nine carat gold cufflinks and can advise on re-engraving old or worn signet rings.

Please telephone or email for a detailed full colour brochure and price list

A 15% reader discount is available for readers of Country Life.

www.ian-norrington.com

Website: https://www.sworder.co.uk/

Telephone: 01279 817778

Email: auctions@sworder.co.uk

Address: GES and Sons Limited, Cambridge Road, Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex CM24 8GE

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Facebook: www.facebook.com/swordersfineart

Instagram: www.instagram.com/swordersfineart

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Introduction

Sworders are one of the UK’s most progressive, leading regional auction houses, operational since the late 18th century, specialising in fine art and antiques from across the ages. 

Holding over 45 auctions each year, their calendar of sales spans Old Master, British and European paintings, Fine Furniture and Works of Art, Modern Design, Modern and Contemporary Art, Asian Art and Jewellery. A one stop shop for fine period furnishings, a piece of iconic modern design, a striking artwork, or simply something unique to take centre stage in a home, garden, or office space. 

For those looking to sell, whether that be a single item, a large collection or a full estate contents sale, Sworders experienced specialists will guide you through the process step by step, ensuring the best possible outcome for your consignment.

Locations

Alongside their eco-friendly award-winning saleroom on the outskirts of the village of Stansted Mountfitchet (easily accessible by train from central London in just over 30 minutes) and a valuations office in Hertford, Sworders now maintains a central London gallery space, from which they host auction previews, exhibitions, events, and specialist valuation days. 

Located in the very heart of London’s theatre district, Sworders London Gallery is nestled in Cecil Court, a picturesque Victorian thoroughfare just a moment’s walk from Leicester Square Tube Station and five minutes from Trafalgar Square.

What they do best

Highlights in the calendar include flagship Fine Interiors, Design, Asian Art and Modern & Contemporary Art auctions, as well as fortnightly Homes & Interiors sales that offer a range of high quality and affordable modern and antique furnishings for the home and garden. 

Sworders have established a marked reputation for handling the sale of major estates and collections. In the spring of 2021, The Sally Hunter & Ian Posgate Collection – the contents of Badgemore Grange on the outskirts of Henley on Thames - saw an outstanding collection of early 19th century Indian Calcutta School bird paintings contribute £189,000 to an overall finish of £738,000. Rounding off 2021 with the remarkable collection of the late Peter Crofts (1924-2001), a Cambridgeshire antique dealer with an extraordinary life story.

Ethos

Buying at auction needn’t be a daunting prospect. Sworders’ friendly, approachable team are on hand to provide advice no matter what your experience. It can prove to be a fun, sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional retail methods and is infinitely more rewarding when you find that one of a kind piece you have been searching for. 

If you are thinking about selling, Sworders team of expert valuers are available to offer free, confidential valuations and advice across a broad range of specialisms.

Learn more

Looking for inspiration for your latest project? Visit www.sworder.co.uk to browse catalogues, read the latest news and events and bid live in real-time (with no additional online fees!) on sales from the comfort of your own home.

Website: https://www.thereddotgallery.com/

Telephone: 01263 710287

Email: sales@thereddotgallery.com

Address: 7 Fish Hill,Holt,Norfolk,NR25 6BD

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRedDotGallery/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereddotgallery/

Showing an eclectic mix of original art, exclusive editions, sculpture and simply lovely wares all chosen because we really like them – sourced from far and wide we guarantee many pieces and merchandise you’ll not see elsewhere!

We have a reputation for showing the unusual and unexpected from original paintings and silkscreen/serigraph editions to quirky sculpture. Also colourful characters from the world of dance, theatre and history, all with a modern twist.

There’s a definite interiors slant with one-off table lamps, exclusive cushions and textiles, individual pieces of furniture along with a wide selection of glass both antique and modern.

Gallery established in London 1988 and now delighted to have been in the Georgian Market Town of Holt, North Norfolk, for twenty five years and counting – ever changing mix of work, varied exhibition programme, everything priced and music playing!

Don’t be intimidated by the word ‘Gallery’ – the shop is welcoming, intriguing and well worth 5 minutes of your time – we don’t take ourselves too seriously!

Oh... and there is an upstairs which is a ‘whole new world’.

See more at www.thereddotgallery.com

Website: www.islandfinearts.com

Telephone: 01243 532798

Address: 12 Southgate, Chichester, PO19 1ES

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/island_fine_arts/

Island Fine Arts was founded in 1997 and spent the first twenty one years based in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight. In late May 2018 we moved into a Grade II-listed building in Chichester, just a few minutes’ walk from the railway station.

The gallery deals in works by some of the leading names in 20th and 21st Century British painting, including Robbie Wraith, RP, L.S. Lowry, RA, Benjamin Hope, NEAC, Ken Howard, RA, Fred Cuming, RA, Peter Brown, NEAC and Ann Shrager, NEAC to name just but a few. We run a programme of exhibition throughout the year in our Chichester gallery, all of which are online at www.islandfinearts.com.

Our website has lots to look at and enjoy, but there is nothing better that visiting the gallery and seeing the paintings in the flesh. Besides working out of our gallery in Chichester, we attend the Affordable Art Fair in Battersea every autumn. This presents a great opportunity for clients to see us in London.

The gallery believes that custom services is the route to success, so please do let us know if there is something we can improve on our website, or in the gallery to make the experience even better for you.

We look forward to welcoming you to Island Fine Art in Chichester soon.

Latest exhibition - 19 May to 18 June

Winter Graduation, 12x12 inches, oil, £1300 by Benjamin Hope

St Martins to Pallant, 16x12 inches, oil, £1600 by Benjamin Hope

Mad light on East St, 10.8x10.6 inches, oil, £800 by Benjamin Hope

Meanwhile in West Wittering, 14x14 inches, oil, £1500 by Benjamin Hope

Montpelier Vale windy morning, 12x10 inches, Pastel, 12x10 inches, £900 by Benjamin Hope

St Stephen Walbrook and Mansion House, 14x10 inches, £1300 by Benjamin Hope

To the beach, 35x35 inches, Acrylic, £2100 by Hannah Cole

A day on the dunes, 24x24 inches, Acrylic, £1500 by Hannah Cole

Watching and waiting, 16x12 inches, Acrylic, £895 by Hannah Cole

Sailing through the daffodils, £8x24 inches, Acrylic, £895 by Hannah Cole

Take away coffee and sea breeze, 8x24 inches, Acrylic, £895 by Hannah Cole

Rampion, 16x12 inches, Acrylic, £895 by Hannah Cole

Website: www.westlandlondon.com

Telephone: +44(0)207 739 8094

Email: westland@westlandlondon.com

Address: Westland London 295 Willesden Lane London NW2 5HY

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Westland-London-159916461143222

Instagram: www.instagram.com/westlandlondonantiques

Westland London, established in 1969, specialise in fine period chimneypieces, fireplace accessories, fine furniture, lighting, and decorative and architectural antiques.

The company has built one of the finest and largest collections of antique chimneypieces in the world spanning the period from the 15th to the early 20th century; the product of over fifty years’ experience in the trade.

As specialists in antique fireplaces, Westland London has a team of restorers working to ensure that each object is preserved for centuries to come. These craftsmen have over 30 years’ experience using traditional techniques and antique tools to bring pieces back to life.

Buying an antique fireplace can be especially challenging and Westland London are always happy to help, whether it is looking at architectural plans, liaising with contractors, making an adjustment to ensure the perfect fit, or just being on hand to guide you through the selection process.

Working with antiques provides tremendous satisfaction and is an immense privilege. Tracing their provenance is an additional bonus, as each piece comes with a tangible, wholly unique, sense of history.

Westland London has clients all over the world, shipping pieces internationally whether it is the largest of fireplaces, or the most delicate of chandeliers. Detailed photography and meticulous descriptions allows clients to confidently purchase items without seeing them in the flesh, although the showroom is something not to be missed.

Whether you’re looking for something spectacular to finish a room or just to be inspired, Westland is certainly worth a visit.

Browse Stock

Website: www.marjanwouda.com

Telephone: 07837364728

Email: marjanwoudasculpture@gmail.com

Address: Whitehall, Park Road Darwen Lancashire BB3 2LE

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Facebook: www.facebook.com/Marjan.Wouda.Sculpture

Instagram: www.instagram.com/marjanwoudasculpture

Marjan is a gifted sculptor crafting beautifully vivid forms mainly of animals, which project stories onto our imaginations and give a charge to the places they inhabit. This inherent drama and emotional content is primarily explored through posture, engaging us with humour and poignancy. Her often life size (sometimes tiny, other times huge) sculptures have an arresting quality, as we easily see something of ourselves reflected in them.

From her studio in Pennine Lancashire she makes sculptures for homes, gardens and public spaces in bronze, resin, clay and steel. Her approach is playful and her touch is light allowing unexpected things to happen and giving the material its voice. We sense the energy with which she draws and re-draws the form be it in clay or charcoal.

To purchase artwork please visit the website. Or to contact Marjan please message

Sir Kyffin Williams, Painter and Royal Academician (1918-2006) and widely regarded as the defining artist of Wales during the 20th Century said of her work: “Here is someone whose work is indeed true sculpture. She gives it an almost surreal twist that immediately makes it thought provoking. Some of her work has a tenderness that is most moving, an emotion that is usually lacking in modern sculpture”

ABOUT MARJAN

Marjan Wouda has been making sculpture since completing her MA in 1988, having studied in London and Manchester. Originally from the Netherlands she moved to Darwen, Lancashire in the year 2000. Her work is spread far and wide, from New Zealand and Hong Kong to Europe, the Caribbean and America, bought or commissioned by private collectors and public institutions.

She has exhibited in London, Amsterdam, The Hague, Germany, Dublin, Washington DC and around the UK, and has made sculptural responses to public spaces in London, Greater Manchester, Newcastle-upon-Thyme and green spaces such as parks, reservoirs and sculpture trails in Lancashire and Yorkshire.

Zachte Kracht Shown here is a resin with stone-dust cast. Available in bronze.130 x 120 x 70 cm - Inspired by a Dutch poem about a gentle feminine strength.

Website: www.andrewkaysculpture.co.uk

Telephone: (+44) 015242 71575

Email: andy@andrewkaysculpture.co.uk

Address: Andrew Kay Sculpture, Beckside Studio, Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria LA6 2QG

Facebook: www.facebook.com/andrewkaysculptor

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Based in the north of England, Andrew Kay is an award winning sculptor whose work can be seen throughout the world.

From his studio set in the wild hills of his native county of Cumbria, Andrew creates sculpture that attracts widespread acclaim; his work being commissioned by both public bodies and private collectors. Drawing from the natural world for inspiration, the life size sculptures capture the powerful anatomy and essence of wild beasts using deceptively simple form and structure.

BOXING HARES

A pair of Boxing Hares. 5 foot high with hidden plinth.

Springing forth after winter, the high energy of these two jousting for creation, the male ever keen with his intended having other ideas, at least for now! A positive, mad sculpture in a larger than life scale. Dimensions 130 x 110cm

Shire On Ash Hill

Large Shire Horse plodding over buttercups.

This wonderful beast has had a hard day toiling for his masters; committed, compliant but still oh so powerful. Large section steel employed which creates more abstracted form.

Dimensions 300 x 100 x 190cm

The creation of a sculpture

https://youtu.be/ysPgWwvZGno

 Would you like to talk to Andrew about your sculpture commission? For all enquiries and orders please call Andrew on (+44) 07740 306412 or visit the website

www.andrewkaysculpture.co.uk

Website: www.paulyatesart.com

Email: michael@paulyatesart.com

Address: Drumadarragh House, Co Antrim BY39 0TA

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/paul-yates-art/

Established under the patronage of Lord and Lady Glentoran.

Original paintings, prints and commissions, attracting connoisseurs of the avant-garde internationally.

“Ars Longa – Vita Brevis”

Find out more at www.paulyatesart.com.

Website: www.avantgardenonline.com

Telephone: +44 1481 730870

Email: nickmartel1260@gmail.com

Address: No.6 St Johns Terrace, St Johns Rd St Peter Port Guernsey GY1 1WZ

Facebook: www.facebook.com/avantgardenguernsey

Instagram: www.instagram.com/avant_garden_online

Avant Garden & Home is celebrating it’s 20th birthday in 2020. Having focused on quality & unique pieces Avant Garden has found a particular niche spot in the market place.

Click to view the Bronze Animal Collection

Click to view the bronze bird collection

With designs to suit every home, be it indoors or in the garden. Choose from our amazing Solid Bronze Sculpture Collection, construction with the finest detail & precision.

Click to view the Armillary Sphere Sundial Collection

Each sculpture is truly beautiful & completely resistant to weathering and corrosion, meaning they will last a lifetime & beyond.

Click to view the Fountain and Water Feature Collection

Any of our original Solid Bronze Sculptures will make the perfect gift for a loved one. The Avant Garden Solid Bronze Collection now has approx 500 different stunning works of

art. Certainly something for every taste.

Click to view the full range on the website

Website: www.thepetsketch.com

Telephone: +44 (0) 7701 334840

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepet.sketch.5

Pets are part of the family and whether it’s your gun dog, your hunter or your favourite pooch or tommy, we can provide the perfect piece of art that captures your pet’s character.

Colour or black and white, all originals commissions are sent by courier in protected packaging and make the perfect gift or personalised addition to your art collection.

Find out more at www.thepetsketch.com.

Website: www.richardgreen.com

Telephone: 020 7493 3939

Email: paintings@richardgreen.com

Address: 147 New Bond StreetLondonW1S 2TS

Instagram: http://instagram.com/richardgreengallery

Richard Green is an international family business with two galleries in Bond Street, Mayfair, at the heart of the London art world.

Website: www.messums.com

Telephone: +44 (0)1628 486565

Email: info@messums.com

Address: 28 Cork StMayfairLondon W1S 3NG

Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/Messums/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/messumsstudio/

Messum’s has long held a powerful reputation as one of the country’s leading British art galleries. Founded by David Messum in 1963, the gallery has been established in Cork Street since 1993, and has played a pivotal role in Cork Street’s long-standing reputation as a centre for the British art trade. The company now has a base in Tisbury, Wiltshire, and a sculpture garden in Marlow, Bucks.

Website: www.christies.com

Telephone: 020 7839 9060

Email: info@christies.com

Address: 8 King StSt. James'sLondonSW1Y 6QT

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Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service, expertise and global reach. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie's has since conducted the greatest and most celebrated auctions through the centuries providing a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful.

Website: www.dreweatts.com

Telephone: 01635 553 553

Email: info@dreweatts.com

Address: Donnington PrioryNewburyBerkshire RG14 2JE

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dreweatts-&-bloomsbury-auctions

Dreweatts is a leading UK auctioneer of fine art, furniture, sculpture, European and Asian ceramics and works of art, modern design, jewellery, watches, silver, clocks, wine, manuscripts and miniatures, books and live steam and model engineering.

Website: www.davidharber.co.uk

Telephone: +44 (0) 1235 859300

Email: sales@davidharber.com

Address: Blewburton BarnsHagbourne RoadAston UpthorpeOxonOX11 9EE

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davidharbergardens

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidharbersculptures/

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David Harber’s award-winning artworks grace some of the most prestigious addresses across the world — from public spaces to luxury developments, hotels to private gardens. While he is best known for his outdoor sculptures, his team’s knack for sensitively tailoring each project to reflect the identity of that space has made his work popular with interior designers too.

Website: www.ronaldphillipsantiques.co.uk

Email: advice@ronaldphillips.co.uk

Address: 26 Bruton StreetLondonW1J 6QL

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Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ronald-Phillips-Ltd-Antique-English-Furniture/155688694477875#%21/pages/Ronald-Phillips-Ltd-Antique-English-Furniture/155688694477875

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronaldphillips.antiques/

Ronald Phillips is today one of the leading fine English antique dealers in the world.

Website: www.rountreetryon.com

Telephone: 01798 344 207

Email: info@rountreetryon.com

Address: The Old TavernMarket SquarePetworthWest SussexGU28 0AH

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rountreetryon/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rountreetryongalleries/

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Founded in 1959, Rountree Tryon Galleries specialises in maritime, wildlife, sporting and topographical art from the eighteenth century to the present day.

Website: www.trinityhousepaintings.com

Telephone: 0207 499 8958

Email: art@trinityhousepaintings.com

Address: 50 Maddox StreetLondonW1S 1AY

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Trinity House Paintings is an international art dealership. They specialise in Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern British and 19th Century works, along with other exceptional pieces.

Telephone: 0121 212 2131

Email: info@fellows.co.uk

Address: 19 Augusta StreetBirminghamB18 6JA

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Founded in Birmingham in 1876, Fellows are a family-run firm of auctioneers and valuers.

Surrey, £2 million

The Old Farmhouse, Outwood 4 bedrooms, Aga, barns, 19 acres Hamptons International (01883 345255)

This Grade II-listed Wealden Hall house boasts an appropriately named 'Christmas barn'-a characterful space for a gathering. The house has come to the market for the first time in nearly 50 years and it dates from about 1470, with many original features including inglenook fireplaces, oak bressumer beams and a crown post.

Cambridgeshire, £1.8 million Northborough Manor, Northborough 4 bedrooms, four-bedroom gatehouse, 1.15 acres Smiths Gore (01780 484696)

The great hall in this Grade I-listed manor house has hosted many formal gatherings over the years. It's a light room thanks to the vast stone-mullion windows

Warwickshire/Worcestershire borders, £1.95 million Cookhill, Alcester 6 bedrooms, games room, outbuildings, 15.6 acres Knight Frank (01789 297735)

The former chapel of this house, which is attached to the side, would make a perfect party room with floor-to-ceiling leaded windows overlooking the garden. Additionally, there's a large dining room and plenty of attic space that could be turned into more bedrooms.

Hampshire, £8.5 million Drayton House, East Meon 7 bedrooms, tennis court, pool, cottage Strutt & Parker (020-7629 7282)

There's no excuse for being antisocial at this beautifully renovated house. The open-plan layout of many of the rooms means that they could all be used for a party space and the barnlike dining hall would make a beautiful room for Christmas lunch. One of the bedrooms has two bunk beds for young children and teenagers could be housed in the poolroom bedroom.

Cheshire, £1.75 million Dairy House Farm, Brereton Park 6 bedrooms, Aga, stable block, 7 acres Jackson-Stops & Staff (01625 540340)

The sitting and drawing rooms of this house are interconnected, providing a large space for entertaining that has wide-boarded oak floors, a wood-burning stove, beams and French windows leading to the front gardens

Hampshire, £3.95 million Ibthorpe Manor Farm, Ibthorpe 7 bedrooms, three-bedroom cottage, party barn, 15 acres Savills (020-7409 8823)

This Grade II-listed house in one of Hampshire's prettiest villages comes with a first-class party barn. Also listed Grade II, it has a carpeted entertaining area, a dancefloor, a bar with a copper top and spot lighting in the beams. It can comfortably seat 100 for dinner or up to 200 for drinks and dancing.

Somerset, £2.495 million Rood Farm, Butleigh 5 bedrooms, pool, barn, 24 acres Chesterton Humberts (020-7594 4746)

The heart of this extended farmhouse lies in the kitchen/breakfast room, which is large and bright and has a triple aspect over the garden. The room measures the length of the house so there's plenty of space to host a noisy Christmas lunch.

Hampshire, £2.975 million Yew Trees, Penton Mewsey 6 bedrooms, Aga, garage/office, 4.4 acres Carter Jonas (01962 842742)

The benefit of a newly built country house is that the layout is immediately suited to the needs of a modern-day family: Yew Trees' large eat-in kitchen takes centre stage on the ground floor and more formal entertaining space is found in the drawing room and library, which have a dual aspect over the gardens.

Buckinghamshire, £2.5 million Sandfords, Chalfont St Giles 5 bedrooms, orangery, coach house, 0.5 acre Winkworth (01494 677978)

A large ‘Smallbone inspired' kitchen leads into the pretty orangery in this Queen Anne house-a perfect space for an informal gathering, or you could use the adjoining sitting and dining rooms. The coach house could be converted into ancillary accommodation, subject to the usual planning consents.

* Country houses for sale 

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Website: www.cheffins.co.uk

Telephone: 01223 213343

Address: Cheffins1-2 Clifton RoadCambridgeCB1 7EA

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About Cheffins

Founded in 1825, Cheffins is one of the country’s leading firms of Auctioneers and Valuers. With some thirty plus auctions hosted every year from our Cambridge salerooms, our specialist sales cover every major discipline, including Traditional and Contemporary Art, 20th Century Decorative Arts, Antique Furniture, Silver, Jewellery & Watches, Asian Art, Books and Wine to name but a few. 

What we do 

Our team of experts can help both buyers and sellers through every step of the auction process, and regularly work with some of the biggest names in the art, antiques and interior design world. As well as our regular auctions, we also offer a wide range of valuation services for insurance and probate as well as dealing with single-owner collections and major country house sales, hosted either at Cheffins or on site sales at some of the finest homes across the UK.

Location

Cheffins purpose-built salerooms in the centre of Cambridge are only minutes from the mainline train station, making us the perfect choice for London-based buyers and sellers. 

The service 

Cheffins provides an unrivalled service to clients the world over. The business combines exceptional personal service, a significant understanding of the art and antiques world and PR and marketing which ensures that consignments are sold globally, with regular sales throughout the Europe, the USA and Asia. Cheffins takes the hassle out of both buying and selling at auction, offering some of the best and most personal service in the trade. 

Private collections and house contents 

Cheffins also has an established reputation for selling private collections and entire house contents, both from our Cambridge sale rooms and on-site, and has been involved in some of the largest country house sales to date. Our team of specialists provide a bespoke end-to-end service from initial valuation, cataloguing and marketing strategy through to producing an exciting and diverse catalogue, with estimates regularly exceeded. Large collections, distinguished collectors, fascinating or large country houses all offer opportunity for a one-off house contents auctions. 

Cheffins is a member of SOFAA, the only professional organisation in the United Kingdom exclusively representing fine art auctioneers and valuers.

Picture credits: Benedict Foley, Boz Gagovski.

As the number of those getting new mortgages fell again in September, a new report has predicted that the housing market should see some small falls in inflation into 2008 and 2009, but no dramatic corrections. The economy is set to slow in 2008, according to the report from Capital Economics, as past rate increases, a weaker global backdrop and tighter credit conditions take their toll on activity, although interest rate cuts are now on the cards, perhaps as soon as next month. This slowdown is expected to be broadly comparable to that of 2004-2005 when house price inflation dropped sharply, but house prices did not fall, it says. ?We have cut our forecast for house price growth in 2008 from 0% to -3%,? it states. ?We also expect house prices to fall by a further 3% in 2009.? In London, financial turmoil has weakened the outlook, but a stagnation of house prices in the capital seems most likely in the short term, they say. Elsewhere, housing affordability is worst in parts of northern England, the Midlands, Wales and the South West, which makes them more vulnerable to falls: ?These regions will be hit hardest by softer household and public spending. Thus, by and large, we expect them to suffer the largest house price falls,? say the authors.

A guitar-shaped Greek island pulled at The Beatles' heartstrings in 1964. Surrounded by ancient olive groves, pistachio trees and the crystal clear Mediterranean, the band sang on the beach as the sun went down, and offered to buy the island the following morning. Unfortunately, the Greek owners were not interested in selling, and The Beatles returned island-less to the UK. But their experience at 14-acre Trinity Island had convinced them that a private island or Beatledrome was exactly what they needed. No wonder: 'Trinity is the perfect Greek island,' says island specialist Cheyenne Morrison from agents Coldwell Banker Morrison. 'It is just 10 minutes from Athens by helicopter, yet offers total privacy.' Although there are more than 1,500 islands surrounding Greece, Trinity is extremely rare, and not just because of the beautiful landscape. 'There are lots of islands but very few are on the market at any one time,' says Mr Morrison. 'And those that are, aren't always any good. Often they have no flat land for building, or they don't have the right certificates of ownership there is a huge amount of government restrictions. There are only a handful of islands with all the correct paperwork.' The Beatles themselves became victims of the 'wild west' Greek island property market when a crook tried to sell them an island belonging to the Government, with a population of 400 people. Eventually, they found Leslo in 1967 an 80-acre main island with four small islands surrounding it, one for each of the band members. It was on the market for just £90,000 and included a small fishing village, four beaches and a large olive grove. But, after complications with certificates, the sale fell through and The Beatles gave up hope of owning their very own Greek haven. Forty-three years too late for the Liverpool band, Trinity Island has come to the market (00 617 4099 3939; www.luxuryrealestate.com/717368). At ?20m (about £13.5m), it is considerably more expensive than Leslo was but, according to Mr Morrison, it is still a bargain. 'A privately owned island is an important status symbol and carries a huge brag-factor,' he says. 'Most islands are more expensive than Trinity and are much less advanced. Admittedly it is not big enough to develop into a resort but it is a perfect private paradise complete with all the paperwork. It would take a couple of months to buy, rather than a couple of years.' A-list credentials The Beatles are not the only A-list celebrities to fall in love with the lemon groves, fishing villages and clear waters of the Greek islands. Aristoteles Onassis started the trend of buying whole islands when he purchased Skorpios in 1963. 'It all started with the richest man on the earth then suddenly owning an island became very chic,' says Farhad Vladi of island sales specialist Vladi Private Islands. Island owners, he says, are shy about coming forward but it is common knowledge that Paloma Picasso has purchased the western island of Petalous, and Madonna and Richard Gere are rumoured to be among the celebrities currently competing to find a perfect Greek hideaway. Privacy, glorious weather and sandy beaches are always going to entice the rich and famous. And an island will never cease to be exclusive the multi-million pound price tags do not suit many budgets. But Mr Vladi is convinced that it is always worth bartering. 'Negotiate,' he says. 'Don't be put off when you hear the asking price.' Buyers who can't afford a whole island can always opt for the next best thing a property on Corfu or Santorini or even smaller Aegean and Ionian islands. And for a taste of jet-set life, companies such as The Greek Islands. Club offer top-end 'private island-style' holidays on small Greek islands. 'Greece is a country where people are happy and the weather is glorious,' says Keith Wren, who owns a quality property business on Corfu aimed at the British market (07711 680090; www.corfupropertysales.com). 'You can swim along unspoilt beaches, barbecue in the evenings, dine in your local taverna or just watch the sun go down with a glass of local wine on your terrace.' After many years of keeping a house in Dorset but spending large amounts of time on Corfu, Mr Wren has decided to decamp there forever. 'I've put the house on the market and am moving to the island of my dreams,' he says. And who knows if enough buyers invest in the villas and Venetian mansions he is selling, one day he might achieve The Beatles' dream of owning a private kingdom in the sun. ISLAND CHECKLIST ? Before parting with your money, check how far the island is from Athens and other islands with supermarkets, chemists and restaurants, and if there are regular ferries to and from the mainland. ? Islands closer to the mainland tend to have more stable climates. Those out to sea are more susceptible to storms. ? Similarly, some islands are more suitable for development than others. Make sure there is flat land for building and, if possible, purchase an island with water and electricity supplies. ? Enlist the help of a reputable lawyer before you start negotiating. The purchaser is required to appoint a local solicitor who will be responsible for checking title deeds, any outstanding mortgage or encumbrances on the property, and whether there are any tax liabilities. ? Construction permits are required if an island is to be developed. ? Ownership status must be absolutely clear for a sale to proceed. Check the titles of ownership of the island have been fully authenticated by the Greek Government. These can take more than 12 months to be issued if they are not up to date. ? Be sure to find about an island's existing mortgages. ? For an island to be sold it must have a certificate by the Archeological Agency, confirming it does not have any antiquities lurking under its soil, and another from the Forest Authority stating it does not have land characterised as forest. It also requires a certificate from the National Defense and Merchant Marine ministries confirming it is free of national security commitments. ? Once a purchaser has obtained the necessary certifications from public agencies, a notice must be posted in the local newspapers. Which island will suit you Paxos: perfect for escaping the crowds. An undulating landscape of silver olive trees, many sheltered coves and pretty fishing villages and no airport. AntiPaxos: this tiny satellite island, just one mile off Paxos, has beaches, valleys of vineyards and just four tavernas. Ithaca: has remained untouched by tourism because it has no airport and can only be reached by ferry. Cephalonia: the largest of the Ionian Islands, popular for superb beaches and stunning scenery. Lefkas: a green mountainous interior makes Lefkas perfect for those wanting seclusion close to beautiful beaches. Corfu: a large, undulating island of olive- and pine-tree-clad hillsides, hidden hamlets and villages. It has small coves and large beaches and the capital boasts stunning Venetian architecture. Alonissos: slow and quiet, Alonissos has unspoilt countryside, deserted beaches and good tavernas. Skopelos: combines rich, green hillsides with enticing beaches and esteemed waterfront tavernas. Skiathos: offers spectacular beaches, water sports and good Aegean food. By day there is a wonderful scenery and a cosmopolitan ambience, and by night the towns come alive. Santorini: a volcanic island of stunning contrasts with some of the most inspir¬ing views in the world. Andros: the greenest island of the Cyclades, with attractive villages, historic architecture and stunning beaches. Crete: has an extensive coastline of fishing villages, towns and beaches and a dramatic interior of unique beauty. Good for activities and watersports. Aegina: just 12 miles from the port of Piraeus, in Athens, Aegina is an island of sandy beaches and pistachio trees within easy reach of the capital. Poras: is a peaceful and romantic island with neoclassical style buildings, pine trees, rugged shores and sandy beaches. Hydra: a cosmopolitan island with a picturesque town at its centre, built amphitheatrically around the port. Spetses: rich vegetation, pine trees and secluded bays. This island's beautiful capital boasts neoclassical houses with wooden balconies and coloured walls.Rhodes: resorts such as Faliraki, which are devoted to package tourism, give Rhodes a bad name. The hilly interior and the wilder west coast offer a more authentic Greek lifestyle. Samos: combines pure white sand beaches, picturesque villages, fishing harbours, a rich cultural history and an indigenous variety of sweet wine. Ikaria: south west of Samos, near the Turkish coast, Ikaria is a relatively large island known for dark red wine, ther¬mal springs and the legend of Icarus. Thassos: dubbed the 'emerald isle', Thassos features fine, uncrowded beach¬es and pretty mountain villages, and is a haven for walking. Evia: is the second largest island in Greece after Crete, and is linked by a suspension bridge to the mainland. It boasts luxurious villas, good tavernas and museums, glorious beaches, forests, mountains and hot springs. Cyprus: 'the island of Aphrodite' has something for everyone a huge variety of beaches, coastal paths, pretty villages and high-octane nightlife. For more information, contact the Greek Tourist Board (020-7495 9300; www.visitgreece.gr; email: info@gnto.co.uk)

There is no season like autumn in the US, and there is no better place to experience it than Connecticut. It may not have the raw, wild beauty of Maine, but the scattering of genteel villages, peaceful rivers and cobalt-blue lakes that break up the foliage here especially in the forested, tranquil Litchfield Hills more than make up for it. The mere glimpse of this is enough to make you want to set up home in the Constitution State. Except, of course, that hard-nosed property investment and autumnal romance don't always go hand in hand. And just now, British buyers looking at the American market must be wondering whether they would do better to 'leave it well enough alone', as they say in the US. US housing saw a sharp increase in value between 2001 and 2005, which was linked to low interest rates and renewed attention to property investment. However, as was well documented in the UK press, the market was hit this year when a rise in interest rates triggered problems in the 'subprime' market. In the ensuing months, property transaction volumes and, in some cases, prices have dropped. Even Connecticut was affected, despite its affluent demographics. Ray Kehrhahn from the University of Connecticut explains: 'In Connecticut, we don't have the issue with the subprime lending crisis that other areas of the country have. [But it] has reduced the availability of mortgage money across the board.' However and it is a big however sterling-heavy British investors have a sizeable inducement to buy Connecticut property at this wobbly time: the weak dollar. And cash-in-hand buyers, British or otherwise, are going to be particularly welcome in a market where transactions risk falling through because buyers find it harder to secure financing. When it comes to premium country homes, it also helps that the luxury market in Connecticut follows slightly different dynamics from the mainstream one. In Litchfield County 'values for the most sought-after properties are continuing to climb', according to Sean Aikman of Sotheby's International Realty. 'The number of sales to date this year for properties listed over $1 million has increased 37.4% over the same period last year, and the average selling price has increased by nearly 9% during the same period.' Indeed, prime American buyers remain remarkably positive about the value of their homes, according to a recent survey by agents Coldwell Banker Previews. More than a third of the respondents believe that the value of their primary residence will increase significantly over the next five years. Jim Gillespie, president and chief executive officer of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation, says: 'It is important to remember that in addition to being a home, real estate is a long-term investment, one that can withstand periodic changes in the market.' In Connecticut, in particular, quality homes in prime locations such as Greenwich a waterside town 40 minutes' by train from Manhattan, which is home to as many antiques shops as hedge fund companies look set to remain a sensible buy. Weekend homes in the Litchfield Hills are also sought after, both by New Yorkers and by people who do business in the City. Many believe real estate in the north-east of the US is a safe haven for money.

10 Fastest Selling Country Houses in 2005:

1. Stoke House, Nr Andover, Hants (£2.45m): 48 hrs

2. Oakham, Little Compton, Glos (£1.75m): 5 days

3. Chanters House, Pilton Somerset (£1.5m): 1 week

4. Bruern Abbey, Kingham, Oxon (£5m+) : 2 weeks

5. West Court, Inkpen, Berks (£3m): 2 weeks

6. Treyford Manor, Midhurst, Sussex (£2m+): 2 weeks

7. Downgate, Sandhurst, Kent (£3m): 2 weeks

8. Battle House, Bromham, Wilts (£1.75m): 2 weeks

9. Mapperton House, Wincanton, Somerset (£3.5): 2 weeks

10. Nunton House, Nr Salisbury, Wilts (£1.2m): 2 weeks

10 Best country houses sold in 2005

1. Easton Neston, Northants (Knight Frank), £18 m.

2. Wentworth Place, Surrey (Knight Frank/Savills), £12.5m

3. The Priory, Nun Monkton, Yorkshire (Carter Jonas), 7m+

4. Chilworth Manor, Surrey (Savills), £6m+

5. Delamere Manor Estate, Cheshire (Strutt & Parker), £5.5m

6. Bruern Abbey, Oxon (Knight Frank), £5m+

7. Franchise Manor, E. Sussex (Knight Frank), £5m+

8. Higham Park, Kent (Strutt & Parker), £4m

9. Mapperton House, Somerset (Savills), £3.5m

10. The Manor House, Milton Lilbourne, Wilts (Savills), £3m +

10 Best Estates Sold in 2005:

1. Ash Park, Hampshire (Knight Frank), £10m

2. Ashby St Ledgers Estate, Leicestershire (Strutt & Parker), £9.5m

3. Thimbleby Estate, Yorklshire (Carter Jonas), £7m

4. Barton Manor Estate, I.O.W (Gascoigne Billinghurst), £6.5m

5. Cliveden Stud, Bucks (Bidwells/Savills), £6m

6. High Hatton Hall Estate, Shropshire (Savills), £5m+

7. Bilsby Estate, Lincs (Strutt & Parker), £5m

8. Old Down House Estate, Glos. (Carter Jonas), £4m

9. Little Dartmouth Estate, Devon (Savills), £3m

10. Chestall Hall Estate, Staffs (Knight Frank) £2.5m

Slow Burners:

1. Toddington Manor, Glos (£3.25m): 2 years

2. Easton Neston House, Northants (£18m): 1 year+

3. Deepdale House, Norfolk: 1 year+

4. Barton Manor Estate, IOW (£6.5m): 1 year +

5. Stocketts, Old Oxted, Surrey (3.64m): 10 months

6. Maryland, Worplesdon, Surrey (4.25m): 8 months

100 Best Country Properties Sold in 2005:

Surrey: Wentworth Place, Chobham (Savills), £12.5m; Chilworth Manor, Nr Guildford (Savills), £6m+; Maryland, Worplesdon (Lane Fox), £4.25m; Stocketts, Old Oxted, (Strutt & Parker), £3.64m; Copse House, Goldalming (Browns), £2.25m.

Berkshire: Old Titness, Nr Ascot (Knight Frank/Savills/Strutt & Parker), £9m; Great Martins, Shurlock Row (Savills), £4.3m; Hurst Lodge, Nr Twyford (Lane Fox/Savills), £3.5m; West Court, Inkpen (Strutt & Parker), £3m; West Soley Farmhouse, Chilton Foliat (Strutt & Parker), £1.7m.

Kent: Oakfield, Penshurst (Cluttons), £4.15m; Higham Park, Nr Canterbury (Strutt & Parker), £4m; Downgate, Sandhurst (Knight Frank/Calcutt Maclean Standen), £3 million; The Grove, Penshurst (Jackson-Stops), £2.25m; Guinea Hall, Nr Ashford (Cluttons), £2.1m; Leacon Hall, Warehorne (Strutt & Parker), £1.65m; Forge Farmhouse, Goudhurst (Jackson-Stops), £1.5m; Dane Street House, Chilham (Strutt & Parker), £1.2m.

Hampshire: Ash Park, Nr Basingstoke (Knight Frank), £10m+; Brooklands, Hamble River (Knight Frank), £5.2m; Morstead Manor, Twyford (Strutt & Parker), £2.8m; Stoke House, Nr Andover (Knight Frank/Savills), £2.45m; Long Mead House, Quarley (Jackson-Stops), £2.5m; Stoke Hill Farm, nr Winchester (Jackson-Stops), £2.5m; Ballstone Farm, Ibworth (Knight Frank), £2.3m; The Merrie Thought, Stockton, N. Forest (Woolley & Wallis), £2.25m; Barton Manor Estate, IOW (£6.5m).

E. Sussex: Franchise Manor, Heathfield (Knight Frank), £5m+.

W. Sussex: West Grinstead Estate, Horsham (Knight Frank), £9m in lots; Treyford Manor, Midhurst (Jackson-Stops/Savills), £2m+; Naldrett House, Rudgwick (Browns), £2m; Friars Gate, Chichester (Jackson-Stops), £1.7m. Buckinghamshire: Cliveden Stud, Cliveden (Bidwells/Savills), £6m; South Pavilion, Wotton Underwood (Strutt & Parker), £4.225m; The Manor House, Weston Turville (Knight Frank), £3m+.

Bedfordshire: Kingswood House, Heath & Reach (Jackson-Stops), £3m. Hertfordshire: Cell Park, Markyate (Savills), £3m. Essex: Nazeing Park, Nazeing (Savills), £3.5m.

Oxfordshire: Ewelme Down House, Nr Wallingford (Knight Frank/Savills), £12m; Rocky Lane Farm, Nr Henley-on-Thames (Knight Frank), £6m; Bruern Abbey, Kingham (Knight Frank), £5m+; Wychwood Manor, Charlbury (Savills), £2.75m; Mill House, Sutton Courtenay (Knight Frank), £2.5m; The Lodge, Little Tew (Knight Frank), £2.3m; The Old Rectory, Westwell (Knight Frank), £2.1m;Portway House, Kirtlington (Savills), £1.75m.

Gloucestershire: Dowdeswell Court, Nr Cheltenham (Knight Frank/Savills), £4.75m; Winson Mill House (Knight Frank/Savills), £4.5m; Old Down House Estate, Thornbury (Carter Jonas), £4m in lots; Toddington Manor, Toddington (Jackson-Stops), £3m+; Todenham Manor, Todenham (Lane Fox), £2.75m; Maidenwell, Broad Campden (Jackson-Stops), £2.25m; Old Rectory, Harnhill (John D. Wood) £ 3m+.

Wiltshire: Baydon House, Nr Hungerford (Strutt & Parker), £4.75m; Withyslade Farm, Tisbury (Fox Grant), £3.6m; The Manor House, Milton Lilbourne (Savills), £3m+; Blackland Park, Calne (Savills), £3m; Dauntsey Park, Nr Malmesbury (Savills), £2.85+; Battle House, Bromham (Savills), £1.75m; Nunton House, Nr Salisbury (Knight Frank), £1.2m;

Somerset: Weacombe Estate, Nr Taunton (Knight Frank), £5m; Mapperton House, Nr Wincanton (Savills), £3.5m; Marsh House, Kingston St Mary (Jackson-Stops), £1.5m; Chanters House, Pilton (Jackson-Stops), £1.4m; Lovelynch Farm, Milverton (Jackson-Stops), £1.25m. Dorset: Nettlecombe, Cheselbourne (Knight Frank), £2.8m; Limbury, Saltway Ash (Humberts), £1.2m.

Devon: Little Dartmouth Estate, Dartmouth (Savills), £3m; Feniton Court, Honiton (Savills), £3m; Holme Down, Exbourne (Jackson-Stops), £2.4m; Wyld Court, Hawkchurch (Jackson-Stops), £2m; Gurrington House, Nr Exeter (Knight Frank); £1.75m; Lower Barn, Salcombe (Knight Frank), £1.75m; Knapp House, East Anstey (Jackson-Stops), £1.35.

Worcestershire: Bretforton Manor, Nr Broadway (Hamptons), £2.5m.

Shropshire: High Hatton Hall Estate, Hodnet (Savills), £5m+.

Staffordshire: Chestall Hall Estate, Lichfield (Knight Frank), £2.5m; Little Onn Hall, Church Eaton (Lane Fox/Knight Frank/Savills), £1.7m+.

Warwickshire: Ashby St Ledgers Estate, Nr Rugby (Strutt & Parker), £9.5m; Ashorne House, Ashorne (Knight Frank), £2.9m.

Northamptonshire: Easton Neston, Towcester (Knight Frank), £18m

Lincolnshire: Bilsby Estate, Nr Alford (Strutt & Parker), £5m.

Cambridgeshire: Westfield, Nr Cambridge (Bidwells), £2m. Suffolk: Broome Place, Nr Bungay (Jackson-Stops), £2.2m

Norfolk: Elsing Hall, Dereham (Savills), £1.85m; The Old Rectory, Southacre (Savills), £1.5m; Felthorpe Hall, Felthorpe (Savills), £1.4m+; The Manor House, Burgh-next-Aylsham (Savills), £1m+

Cheshire: Delamere Manor Estate, Cuddington (Strutt & Parker), £5.5m; Mill House, MPottram St Andrew (Jackson-Stops), £4.5m; Haslington Hall, Haslington (Savills), £3m. Cumbria: Burrow Hall, Kirkby Lonsdale (Savills), £3.5m.

Yorkshire: Thimbleby Estate, Northallerton (Carter Jonas), £7m; The Priory, Nun Monkton (Carter Jonas), £7m+; Faceby Lodge Estate, Stokesley (Smiths Gore) £2.3m.

This article was originally published in Country Life magazine, February 23, 2006

Sport Spurs on Investors 1.29 billion people live in China which equates to 22% of the worlds population, and with the Olympic Games just around the corner the country is becoming the big talking point amongst property investors. American and British investors are attracted by the large ex-pat communities teamed with huge financial investment ahead of the Olympic Games, in Beijing 2008. Their state of the art transportation system includes Lord Foster?s new airport terminal, part of £23 billion invested in the country ready for the Games. Similar investment has been mirrored in Valencia, which is hosting the 2007 Americas Cup. The region has seen property values increase by 27% over the last 12 months, the national average being 16.6%, and the city has risen to the second most popular place for Britons living in Spain. For more information, please see www.spanishpropertyinsight.com, www.britcham.org, www.shaghaivision.com. Ryanair Announces New Routes Ryanair has announced new routes from London Stansted to Balaton in Hungary, Lamezia, Palma and Vitoria, and London Luton to Brest. Their routes from Dublin are also to extend to Marseille, Nantes and La Rochelle, Milan and Venice, as well as Gothenburg, Malmo and Valencia. Britons invest £23bn on Second Homes Abroad With an increase of 45% in the last 4 years, the number of Britons owning their own property abroad is now in excess of 257,000, owning £23bn worth of property, according to The Daily Telegraph. The Office for National Statistics has found that more than 1 million families in Britain own a second home, 72% of which are in England, 5% in Wales and Scotland and the remainder overseas. 154,000 US properties are owned by British buyers, and Australia, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa have all seen increased purchases in recent years. Britons Flock to Bulgaria Bulgaria is becoming increasingly popular with the British property investor. A new Global Property Hot Spots report has claimed that up to 77% more people are now buying a property in Bulgaria. France and Spain still remain favourites but seem expensive options in comparison to countries such as Bulgaria, which appeal to the buy-to-let property investor. According to a spokesperson at HIFX, an independent foreign currency exchange brokerage in the UK: ?Bulgaria is booming and the Black Sea resorts are reminiscent of Spain 20 years ago; investors are buying in their droves and there is similar activity in some of the ski resorts.? Catch this: Spring 2006 Corsica Saint Lucie De Tallano 25-26 March Festa di l?Oliu Novu New Olive Oil is celebrated during this two day market www.sainteluciedetallano.com Paris 12 March Semi-Marathon de Rambouillet Feeling fit? Sign up for the half marathon or enjoy the programme of roadside events. Tel:1 34 57 34 89 Verona Veneto 17-19th March Salus X salone della culture e dell econimia del benessere Seek out the new health spas or organic treatments, something for everyone. www.veronafiere.it Midi-Pyrenees Marciac 24-25 March Jazz in Marciac et la Nouvelle Orleans Jazz in Marniac has incorporated a New Orleans weekend into its season, in the wake of hurricane Katrina. Enjoy two evenings of French and Spanish Jazz. www.jazzinmarciac.com New York USA 4-21st March The New York City Opera Spring Season Premiering Mark Adamo?s Lysistrata www.nycopera.com 26-31st March Cuneo Piedmont The third Alpine Skiing world championship. www.albain.com/sport 3rd -9th April Augusta, Georgia 70th Annual Masters Golf Tournament Down South in the USA www.masters.org

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