Parterres, pigeons and parliamentarians!

The North Hampshire District Group of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE), recently visited two delightful gardens as part of its fundraising activities for 2006.

Despite an unpredictable weather forecast, the spirit amongst the party of 35 day trippers was very lively and jolly as they made their way to Rousham House, near Steeple Aston to the first garden. The house was built in 1635 and the beautiful gardens created by William Kent in 1735. The group enjoyed the fantastic display of herbaceous borders and the walled gardens.

Julian Pilcher, Chairman, North Hampshire District Group said:

"One of the highlights of the trip was the fascinating pigeon house showing multiple pigeon occupation with a revolving ladder inside for access to their slots. Another unexpected bonus was meeting a gentleman in the grounds near the Old Church who lived on the estate and was able to give a detailed insight into Rousham House and its occupants throughout the years."

Etta Pullinger and Jane Royle of CPRE outside the tea rooms at Broughton Castle

Next stop was Broughton Castle, near Banbury. Built originally as a moated house in the 14th century, the castle has been home to the Fiennes family since 1377. The family were parliamentarians in the Civil War and fought against the Royalists at nearby Edgehill in 1642, but still managed to survive the war with their heads intact!

The happy and slightly more knowledgeable party then returned home with a good few new members dragooned in true Royalist style!

If anyone is interested in future activities organised by CPRE North Hampshire District Group, please contact Pam Mason at the CPRE office. Tel: 01962 843655; E-mail admin@cprehampshire.org.uk.

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Notes to editors

CPRE Hampshire strives to promote the beauty, tranquility and diversity of the countryside of Hampshire by the sustainable use of land and other resources in town and country, and encouraging the biodiversity and well-being of rural communities.

The North Hampshire District Group is part of the Hampshire branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England.

For information on CPRE, please contact:
Becky French or Pam Mason, CPRE Hampshire
Tel: 01962 843655
Email:admin@cprehampshire.org.uk

For all media enquiries, please contact:
Keren Burney, media & communications officer, CPRE Hampshire
Tel: 01730 894123   Mobile: 07876 780065
Email: kburney000@aol.com

© Copyright. CPRE Hampshire, 2009. All Rights Reserved.