Short story

By tonight?!’ I gasp to my boss. ‘Sorry, Emily. Management wants us all to attend this productivity course tomorrow. But they still want this first thing Wednesday.’ What a great Monday. ‘How can I do that when I’m losing a day on training?’ My colleague shrugs sympathetically at me. ‘I’m taking my lunch now,’ I say, slamming my laptop shut. ‘I need fresh air. I’m going out.’ He looks surprised. ‘You never take lunch normally. Besides, it’s raining.’ But I grab my coat and head across the road, into the park. Scowling, I stomp the wet pathways, my bad mood surrounding me like a cloud. Of course, it’s when I’m in the centre of the park that rain hits monsoon levels. I dash for the Edwardian bandstand. Rain drums on the roof. Above its rhythm, I become aware of footsteps running up behind me. ‘That was sudden, wasn’t it?’ A man, seemingly around my own age, joins me. I stare at rain-lashed, leafless trees. ‘I’m Luke,’ he says. ‘Hi.’ I don’t give my name. There’s an awkward pause, while I wish he’d go away. ‘You know, in a way it’s beautiful,’ Luke says. ‘Yeah, right.’ ‘Soothing –like a meditation background tape.’ Great. Of all people to be stuck with, it’s someone who’s enjoying Miserable Monday. I move back. He must have noticed, because he steps away and gets out his phone. ‘Not what the weather forecast said…’ His eyes sparkle and they’re very blue. It’s such a ridiculous comment, I can’t help but laugh. ‘That’s better,’ Luke smiles.

RAINY DAYS and Mondays The last thing she wanted on this miserable day was to be waylaid by a strangerÉ

‘We British are comfortable talking weather, aren’t we?’ I relax. He’s cute and we’re not isolated: the park is full of people rushing by. I’m only not joining them because I spent hours straightening my hair. ‘Seriously,’ Luke says. ‘See how the bandstand’s light glows on rain spilling over the roof –like an illuminated fountain in Las Vegas.’ ‘But not as glamorous,’ I laugh. ‘Have you been?’ ‘Nope. But I will one day.’ ‘Me, too.’ There’s a pause while we digest this common ground. ‘Warmer there, too.’ Luke nods like I’ve said something profound. I laugh again and so does he. It feels lovely after all the office stress. It’s an oddly intimate situation, enclosed as we are by the rain curtain –a barrier we could cross any time. ‘I’m Emily,’ I volunteer. ‘Great to meet you, Emily. Now, your turn. Find something beautiful about today.’ ‘Oh, please! What are you? A psychologist or something?’

‘Just someone who learnt to train his mind to see the good.’ ‘That’s very deep,’ I giggle, embarrassed by his seriousness. I mean, I barely know the bloke. I’m not up for a life-the-universe-andeverything conversation. ‘Not really. I had an accident a few years back –made me review everything. That’s when I decided to start looking on the bright side.’ I resist the temptation to launch into the Monty Python song, because he looks so genuine. Then his serious face disappears and he grins. ‘Anyway, don’t change the subject. Your turn to find something beautiful in this rain-sodden park.’ ‘OK… the berries on that bush. They’re sparkly, with the raindrops on them.’ ‘That’s good. Now close your eyes.’ ‘What? No!’ I squeak. Way too weird! ‘Two seconds,’ he says. I can’t explain why, but I trust him. Anyway, he’s hardly

Short story

oing to pounce and ag-snatch in two seconds. At once, I’m aware f stuff I wasn’t before: irdsong; a sweet scent. ‘What’s that smell?’ I ask. ‘Great, isn’t it? I think s the bush with the pink owers. I love the ones at bloom in winter.’ ‘The optimists?’ We laugh. He’s cute, I think –but still a total stranger. The downpour is easing. ‘Look,’ I say. ‘I’d better go.’ ‘To work?’ ‘Yeah.’ I nod towards the building, where my laden desk awaits. ‘Well, I’ll probably see you tomorrow, then.’ ‘Huh?’ ‘I’m running a course there: Mindfulness and Productivity. I was going there when the rain started,’ he says. ‘No offence, but if it’s all “stop-and-stare” stuff, I don’t think our management will be impressed. They think the course is about productivity.’ ‘Most of my company’s clients don’t know what mindfulness is, but they like the results. Their staff are more productive.’ ‘Your company?’ ‘Yeah. I set it up when I got well again.’ ‘So you’re a bit of an evangelist?’ I tease him. He laughs. ‘I hope not quite as scary.’ The smile we share is like a physical link that I don’t nt to break. Must go,’ I say. See you tomorrow, then!’ As I stride back across the et park, I do feel better. Maybe there’s something this mindfulness stuff. Or aybe it’s the thought of ending the whole day with ke tomorrow that’s brought ch a smile to my face? THE END Lydia Jones, 2020

River of GOLD Linking Spain and Portugal, the Douro flows past picturesque vineyards and hillside villages Travel

As I sip Champagne and sink into the red velvet armchair topped by a regal crest, I reflect that there are few occasions in life when you can say you’re travelling like the Queen. However, this is one of them. Lush landscapes While Her Majesty never sat in this throne-like seat, she did enjoy exactly the same opulent surroundings that I, along with a group of her fellow subjects, are now enjoying as we set sail on a cruise along the Douro, said to have been dubbed the ‘River of Gold’ by the Romans who first settled along its banks. The sinuous waterway rises in Spain, winding through the green landscapes of northern Portugal to the city of Porto on the Atlantic coast. It might not be as well known as some of its other European counterparts, such as the Rhine and Danube, but in keeping with its maritime past, when seafarers including Prince Henry the Navigator (born in Porto in 1394) set sail to explore the Great for CULTURE VULTURES A day trip from Barca D’Alva visits the ‘golden city’ of Salamanca, Spain’s oldest university town, where it’s fun to try and spot the tiny frog hidden in the ornate college façade which is said to bring students good luck during exams.

Woman’s Weekly The luxurious Spirit of Chartwell

world, the river offers a fascinating modern-day voyage of discovery.

Sail away As Spirit of Chartwell slips under the double arches of Porto’s landmark Dom Luís Bridge, we begin cruising in style on board a unique vessel that stands out from the crowd. For in 2012 our floating home, which carries just 30 passengers, was the gilded barge that carried the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh at the head of a magnificent flotilla

Salamanca’s historic centre of 1,000 boats along the River Thames during the Diamond Jubilee Pageant. Today, it might have lost some of its elaborate exterior decorations – our captain explains they had to be removed as they snagged the mooring ropes – but still retains its elegance. The cream and chocolate livery resembles a Pullman railway carriage from the golden age of travel, a theme continued inside where the decor is little changed since the pageant. Our journey is leisurely as we sit back and take in the Unesco-listed Douro Valley’s

Great for SPIRITED ADVENTURERS Take a trip around the city with Porto Sidecar Tours. You can ride in the sidecar or as a pillion passenger on a historic Russian Ural bike as you are whisked through quaint narrow streets to places of interest. Explore Porto’s streets in style

dramatic wooded slopes and vineyards that produce the country’s famous port wine. Ships are only allowed to sail during the day, so we never missed the passing sights.

Sightseeing Each day we set off on coach excursions. The next morning, the 18th-century pilgrimage church of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios was a highlight –built in 1750, it overlooks the pretty town of Lamego. After the visit we walked down the wide stone steps leading to Lamego, flanked by fountains, statues and dazzling blue azulejo tiles that adorn everything from palaces and monasteries to homes, park benches and railway stations. I bought some individual tiles to bring home, as they make great souvenirs and presents. The next afternoon brought the delightful medieval walled

town of Castelo Rodrigo, where we sampled local olives and almonds, and on the following day we visited Mateus Palace, depicted on the curvaceous bottles of the namesake rosé wine. Of course, port also runs through the region, and we were taken to family-owned quintas , or wine-producing estates, to learn about – and taste – the fortified tipple. In Portugal it’s drunk at all times of day and throughout the year, not just after dinner or at Christmas!

During our time on board we sat on the sun deck, mingled in the lounge and enjoyed wonderful meals in the dining room – buffet breakfasts and a served four-course lunch and dinner, along with excellent Douro wines that most of us had never tried before. Back in Porto at the end of our trip, we said a reluctant goodbye to the Spirit of Chartwell after travelling like royalty on a cruise fit for a queen.

Getting there ✣ Titan Travel offers a seven-night Douro cruise on the Spirit of Chartwell priced from £3,099, or nine-night holidays with a two-night stay in Lisbon starting at £3,199. Fares include all meals on board, wine with lunch and dinner, excursions, flights and Titan’s VIP home pick-up service. Call 0808 274 2725 or visit www.titantravel.co.uk

We believe in the magic of bedtime stories

0800 715 498 stannah.co.uk Reading a story at bedtime is the most magical part of Grandad’s day. His stairlift helps him to carry on with life, just as normal, so he never has to miss those special moments.

Designed to change the way you move around at home, our stairlifts and homelifts let you continue to do all the things you want to do so you can just keep on being you.

Tips, tricks & buys

GARDEN notes Planting ideas and pretty daffodils

Gardening

CHILLI TIME Sow chilli peppers now, and they’ll have ample time to ripen over summer. Fill a pot with compost and sow seeds thinly about 5mm deep. Gently spray with water, then cover with a plastic bag, held in place with an elastic band. Put somewhere warm (an airing cupboard is perfect) and, when the seeds emerge, remove the plastic and move to a sunny windowsill.

Twee Birds such as blue tits will soon be searching or nesting sites, so entice them into your garden with a bird box. You can make a fine avian abode with the RSPB’s free downloadable plan (rspb.org.uk), or try a Bird Nest Kit, made in forestry-approved arch, that comes with a bag of sheep’s wool or nest lining. £15 from chimneysheep.com

3 of the best… daffodils

Things to do

THIS WEEK

FORCE RHUBARB Harvest slender, pink rhubarb stems 2–3 weeks early by covering the crown with straw, then topping with an upturned bucket or bin to cut out light.

PLANT OUT FORCED BULBS Give spent indoor bulbs a second life: after flowering, store in a shed or garage till spring, then plant in the ground with a handful of fertiliser.

HYDRATE HOUSEPLANTS Combat desert-dry air (thanks, central heating!) –spritz plants with a mister, and stand them on pebble-filled saucers topped up with water.

Top

Difficulty level

Transform a charity-shop piece of furniture into a stylish bedside table. Here’s how... TABLE

YOU WILL NEED ✣ Bedside table –we found ours in a local Emmaus charity shop ✣ Sandpaper and cork sanding block ✣ Wood filler and filler knife ✣ Furniture primer ✣ Chalk paint ✣ Découpage paper ✣ Matte finish Mod Podge ✣ Decorative drawer knob ✣ Cloth ✣ Ruler and pencil ✣ Paintbrush ✣ PVA glue ✣ Pin or skewer

STOCKISTS: Violet Macaroon chalky finish furniture paint, £5 for 125ml, Rust-Oleum. Botanical gift wrap - Summer Garden by Catherine Lewis Design, £2.50 per sheet, notonthehighstreet.com. Glass rod drawer knob, £3.95, Graham & Green. Mod Podge, £5 for 236ml, Hobbycraft.

1Remove the old knob and drawers from the bedside table. Using some sandpaper and a sanding block, remove any paint and smooth out any chips on the surface. Don’t forget to do the drawer too.

2With the wood filler and filler knife, fill any holes or indentations in the surface. Allow to dry completely, then sand away any excess filler.

3

Remove the dust from the bedside table with a slightly damp cloth.

Craft

5Measure the drawer front and base, and transfer the dimensions to the reverse of the découpage paper.

Tested by us so they work for you

6Apply the PVA glue to the surfaces which you are going to apply the découpage paper and leave to go tacky for a couple of minutes. Position the paper over the top and push down to secure. Keep an eye on the paper as it dries, to remove any wrinkles in the paper that might appear.

7Once dry, apply a coat of matte Mod Podge over the top. Allow to dry.

When two more vans arrived the day after his new neighbour moved in, Arthur couldn’t believe his eyes. It wasn’t just furniture they were unloading, there were plants too. There were so many tubs and containers that he quickly lost count. It was as if she’d brought an entire garden with her. It was no better at the weekend. Hammers, drills, thumps, bumps and thuds –the racket went on for hours. He wondered why people always had to change things. The previous owners had ripped out a perfectly good kitchen mere weeks after moving in. When they tore out the original fireplaces and dumped them in a skip, it almost broke his heart. On Saturday afternoon, all kinds of thuds and noises were still coming from next door. It sounded as though a herd of rhino had moved in. He decided to go to the library for a bit of peace and quiet. Unfortunately, he chose the wrong time to leave. His new neighbour was in the front garden, watching as a man painted her door a deep shade of green. Arthur preferred the door the way it was; white like everyone else’s. She gave him a friendly smile. ‘Hi. I’m Rachel Burrows. You must be Arthur. I’m sorry about the noise. The worst will be over in a couple of days.’ ‘It’s Mr Brown,’ he replied as he hurried down the path. He hadn’t meant to be rude, and regretted his snappiness the second the words left his mouth. It was lucky his daughter

The Green DOOR His new neighbour had brought nothing but noise and disruption, yet there was something about her that still drew him in

hadn t heard him, she would have told him off something rotten. Sometimes, he could hear her voice in his head. ‘You’re turning into a grumpy old man. You need to get on with your life. It didn’t end when Mum ran off.’ Of course she was right, but the divorce had hit him hard, denting the little confidence he had. His daughter had signed him up for a speeddating event and he’d been on various internet sites, but with no success. The problem was, he’d always been shy about talking to women. If his wife had waited for him to ask her out, they would never have got together. As the days went by, he shuddered to imagine what Rachel was doing to the house as a constant stream of tradespeople came and went. He had visions of more walls being knocked down, making all the rooms open plan… and as for the garden, what He regretted his snappiness the second the words left his mouth

as going on there, e had no idea. A line of tall plants nd trees had appeared longside the fence. t night, he could ee the glow of lights. e wondered if she’d e having barbecues nd parties every ve minutes. There was so much oise, he was glad to et to work. It had taken im 20 years to reach he position of deputy anager of a stationery holesaler. There, hey did things the ld-fashioned way; he was always Mr Brown or Sir. Nobody would have dared to call him Arthur. When the workmen left, eace returned, but it didn’t ast long. He was reading one night when he heard music. Rachel was playing Green Door by Shakin’ Stevens. Other 1980s hits followed, some of which he remembered from school discos. When the music stopped at nine o’clock, he was surprised to find that he felt a tiny bit disappointed. The next day, a card opped through his door. ‘Rachel Burrows invites you to her housewarming party on Saturday, eight ‘til late. Bring a bottle.’ A housewarming. Arthur wondered why she bothered. These days, people liked to keep to themselves. He certainly did. He was about to throw the card in the bin when he noticed it said ‘RSVP’, so he wrote ‘no thank you’ and pushed it back through her door on his way to work. She called round to his house that evening. ‘Sorry you can’t come to the party,’ she said. ‘I wanted to warn you about the noise. It

Short story

might go on a bit late. I hope that’s OK. It’s only one night.’ He nodded. It wasn’t all right, but at least she’d taken the trouble to warn him. On the night of the party, people started arriving from seven o’clock. Soon the whole road was full of cars. When the music started, Arthur called his daughter. ‘Can I come over to yours? Next door’s having a housewarming party.’ ‘Of course, Dad. You know you’re always welcome.’ Julie welcomed him with a hug. ‘It seems a bit mean, not inviting you. Surely that’s the point of having a housewarming party, getting to meet the neighbours.’ ‘Actually, she did invite me. I said no.’ Before Julie could say anything, he stopped her. ‘I know. I’m a grumpy old man. I should have said yes.’ She smiled. ‘You’re not grumpy, Dad, and you’re 58, so you’re not old either. I know it’s difficult for you, but you could have gone round, at least for a few minutes.’ Arthur frowned. He’d thought she’d be on his side. ‘So what’s she like, this new neighbour?’ Julie asked. ‘Her name’s Rachel. I’m not sure how old she is. Five feet four, give or take. Blonde hair. Grey eyes, nice smile.’ Julie’s eyes twinkled. ‘Is she on her own?’ ‘Don’t start. She’s not much older than you. There was a man painting her front door but it’s hard to tell if they’re together.’ He told her about the various workmen. ‘I’ve never seen anything like it. She even brought trees.’ He looked round the room. ‘Where is everybody tonight?’ ‘Jim’s at the gym,’ Julie giggled. ‘Sorry, Dad, it makes me laugh every time I say it. The twins are at a sleepover and Sarah’s out with her

boyfriend. This is the first night I’ve had to myself in ages.’ Arthur felt a twinge of guilt. He noticed a book, open on the table. His daughter loved to read. With three teenaged children, she didn’t get much time to herself. He thanked her for the tea and biscuits. ‘I should go before it gets dark.’ He gave her a kiss and headed home. Even before he reached his road, he could hear the party. As he passed Rachel’s gate, he stopped. In the light of the street lamp the green door shone like a beacon. From the noise, it sounded like people were having fun. In the end, the shy part of him won and he went indoors, but there was no escaping the music. By ten o’clock, he’d had enough. He marched round and knocked on the green door. Nobody answered, so he tried again. And again. Eventually it swung open. ‘Hello, Mr Brown. I’m so glad you decided to come.’ When Rachel tried to steer him inside, he shrugged her off. ‘I’m not here for the party, I’m here about the noise.’ ‘I see. It will be over by midnight, I promise.’ She looked so apologetic, Arthur regretted being abrupt. He was deciding what to say, when the man he’d seen painting the door appeared. ‘Is everything OK, Rachel?’ She nodded. ‘We’re fine, Pete. I was hoping I could persuade Mr Brown to join us. There’s no need to bring a bottle, there’s plenty.’ Arthur shook his head and went back indoors. If the party wasn’t over by midnight, he’d have something to say. At half past ten, Green Door started playing. It was so loud, he could hear every word Shakin’ Stevens was singing. As he listened to the lyrics, they struck a chord. It was all about a man who was desperate to find out what was going on behind a green door, but the people who lived there wouldn’t let him in. Only Arthur had been invited. His daughter’s words came back to him. Before he could talk himself out of it, he went round. The green door opened before he reached it, and several people emerged, smiling and laughing and saying their goodbyes. ‘Thanks for coming,’ said Rachel. When she saw Arthur, she gave him a hesitant smile. ‘The party’s not over yet, Mr Brown, if you’d like to join us.’ ‘Thank you,’ he said. The moment he stepped inside, Arthur knew that he’d got it all wrong. Rachel hadn’t been hacking the house to pieces, she’d been restoring it. French doors had been installed between the living room and dining room, and she’d even found original 1930s fireplaces. It looked wonderful. ‘What would you like to drink?’ Rachel shouted above the music. ‘Coffee, tea? Or there’s wine, beer or lager.’ He was about to say tea, then changed his mind. ‘A glass of red wine would be lovely, thank you.’ As he sipped his drink, he felt far more comfortable than he’d expected to. It helped that most of the music was from the 70s and 80s. Soon his feet started tapping. The wine was good too. ‘Would you like to see © TI MEDIA LIMITED, 2020. PHOTO: GETTY They might have been the only two people in the entire world

the garden?’ Rachel asked, as she topped up his glass. Arthur nodded. As Rachel led the way, she told him the story behind the garden. ‘My dad died three years ago. Mum wanted to be closer to her family, but she couldn’t bear to leave his garden behind, so when I moved, I offered to take it on, with Pete’s help, of course.’ Arthur allowed himself a smile. He was right; there was something going on between the couple. When Rachel opened the back door, he was lost for words. The garden had been transformed into an enchanted forest. There was a water feature, mirrors, statues and mosaics, all perfectly placed amongst the plants and trees and set off by beautifully arranged lighting. He was transfixed. Rachel must have noticed, because she smiled. ‘It has that effect on people. I should get back to my guests. My mum’s just arrived. She’d love to give you a tour.’ Arthur nodded, still staring at the beautiful garden. Moments later, Rachel’s mother joined him. ‘It’s so lovely to meet you, Mr Brown,’ she said. ‘I’m Gloria.’ As she closed the door, the music from the party faded into the background; they might have been the only two people in the entire world. Gloria’s green eyes were so warm and deep, Arthur could happily have dived into them. ‘Are you ready for the grand tour?’ she asked. When Gloria slipped her arm through his, he thought his heart might burst with happiness. ‘Yes,’ he said softly. ‘But please –call me Arthur.’ THE END Linda Lewis, 2020

STAND AGAINST A PLAIN, LIGHT WALL

WE WANT YOU!

WE’RE LOOKING FOR WOMEN JUST LIKE YOU T O APPEAR I N OUR MAGAZINES. EVERYONE’S W ELCOME, S O A PPLY T ODAY !

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It couldn’t be easier. Simply follow the four steps below to get in touch and submit your photos. We can’t wait to hear from you! STEP 1 Go online to goodtoknow.co.uk/real STEP 2 Fill in your name and contact information. STEP 3 Upload your photos. Please make sure you follow the instructions on the form carefully. STEP 4 Agree to the Terms & Conditions, and then submit your pics.

HAPPY

Turn basic granny squares into something both chic and wearable

Crochet feet

TESTED BY US so they work for you

Difficulty level

MEASUREMENTS To fit shoe sizes: 4-5 (5-6). MATERIALS 3 x 50g (104m) balls of King Cole Merino Blend DK (100% pure new wool superwash) in Teal (Adriatic 1985). Size 3.5mm and 4mm hooks. Yarn is available from theknittingnetwork.co.uk. TENSION 18 stitches and 10 rows, to 10x10cm, over treble, using 4mm hook. ABBREVIATIONS Ch , chain; dc, double crochet; st(s), stitch(es); tr, treble crochet; chsp , chain space; tr2tog , without making the last wrap of each, work 2tr, yarn round hook and pull it through all 3 loops on hook; cl, cluster (make the stated number of stitches without making the last wrap of each, yarn round hook and pull it through all loops on the hook); slst, slip stitch. NOTE Yarn amounts are based on average requirements and are therefore approximate. Instructions are given for the small size. Where they vary, work figures in round brackets for larger sizes. Instructions in square brackets are worked as stated after 2nd bracket.

Crochet

SLIPPER (make 2)

SOLE With 4mm hook, make 4ch. 1st row: 5tr in 4th ch from hook –6 sts. 2nd row: 3ch (counts as 1tr), 2tr in next tr, 1tr in each of next 2tr, 2tr in next tr, 1tr in 3rd of 3ch –8 sts. 3rd row: 3ch, 2tr in next tr, 1tr in each of next 4tr, 2tr in next tr, 1tr in 3rd of 3ch –10 sts. 4th row: 3ch, 2tr in next tr, 1tr in each of next 6tr, 2tr in next tr, 1tr in 3rd of 3ch – 12 sts. 5th row: 3ch, 2tr in next tr, 1tr in each of next 8tr, 2tr in next tr, 1tr in 3rd of 3ch –14 sts. 6th row: 3ch, [1tr in next tr] to 3ch at end, 1tr in 3rd of 3ch. Repeat 6th row, 4 (6) times. 11th (13th) row: 3ch, tr2tog, 1tr in each tr to last 3 sts, tr2tog, 1tr in 3rd of 3ch. Work 3 rows straight. 15th (17th) row: As 11th (13th) row –10 sts. Work 6 rows straight. Next row: As 11th (13th) row –8 sts. Turn. Edging round: 1ch, 1dc in each of next 8 sts, now work 2dc around the stem of each edge stitch along side of sole to point at front, 3dc in point, work 2dc around stem of each edge stitch along other side of sole, slst in first dc. Fasten off.

FRONT MOTIF With 4mm hook, make 5ch, sl st in 5th ch from hook to form a ring. 1st round: 4ch (counts as 1tr and 1ch), [1tr in ring, 1ch] 11 times, slst in 3rd of 4ch –12 tr. 2nd round: Slst in next chsp, 3ch, 2-st tr cl in same chsp, 3ch, [3-st tr cl in next chsp, 3ch] 11 times, miss 3ch and slst in top of first cl – 12 cl.

Get 10% off your next order at theknittingnetwork.co.uk. o claim your discount, enter code WWSLIPPERS at the checkout or call 01795 570303 Terms and conditions: One use per ustomer. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. Offer ends 3 March 2020. NEXT WEEK Shawlcollared cardigan

3rd round: Slst in first chsp, 1dc in same chsp, [5ch, 1dc in next chsp] 11 times, 2ch, 1tr in first dc. 4th round: [3ch, 1dc in next chsp,1ch, work 5tr, 3ch and 5tr in next chsp, 1ch, 1dc in next chsp] 3 times, 3ch, 1dc in next chsp, 1ch, work 5tr, 3ch and 5tr in next chsp, 1ch, slst in 1tr. Fasten off.

FIRST SIDE 1st row: With right side of motif facing and with 4mm hook, join yarn in next corner space from fasten off, 3ch (count as 1tr), work tr2tog in next 2tr, 1tr in each of next 3 tr, 1tr in 1-chsp, 1tr in 1dc, work 1tr and tr2tog in 3-chsp, 1tr in 1dc –10 sts. Turn. 2nd row: 3ch (counts as 1tr), 1tr in each of next 8 sts, 1tr in 3rd of 3ch. Repeat 2nd row, 12 (14) times more. Fasten off.

SECOND SIDE 1st row: With right side of motif facing and with 4mm hook, miss next 5 tr, 3ch, 5tr at corner and next 1-chsp, join yarn in next dc, 3ch, work tr2tog and 1tr in 3-chsp, 1tr in 1dc, 1tr in 1-chsp, 1tr in each of next 3 tr, tr2tog over next 2 tr, 1tr in 3-chsp – 10 sts. Turn. 2nd row: 3ch (counts as 1tr), 1tr in each of next 8 sts, 1tr in 3rd of 3ch. Repeat 2nd row, 12 (14) times more. Fasten off.

TOP EDGING With wrong sides together, join sides by oversewing the single outside strands of the last row. With right side facing, and with 3.5mm hook and starting at the seam, join yarn, 1ch, work 2dc around the stem of each edge st to the motif, miss 1-chsp, work 1dc in each of 5 tr of motif, 3dc in 3-chsp, 1dc in each of remaining 5 tr of motif, miss 1-chsp, work 2dc around the stem of each edge st of second side, slst in 1ch. Fasten off.

BOTTOM EDGING With right side facing and with 3.5mm hook, join yarn at back seam, 1ch, work 2dc around the stem of each side edge st to the motif, 1dc in corner chsp, 1dc in each of 5 tr, miss 1-chsp, 3dc in 3-chsp, 1dc in next 1-chsp, 1dc in each of 5 tr, 3dc in corner chsp, 1dc in each of 5 tr, 1dc in 1-chsp, 3dc in 3-chsp, miss next 1-chsp, 1dc in each of next 5 tr, 1dc in corner chsp, work 2dc around the stem of each side edge st of second side, slst in 1ch. Fasten off.

Research saved Hugo’s life

One in 19 people in the UK will be diagnosed with a blood cancer –such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma. Sadly it claims the lives of around 40 people every day.

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Text Bloodwise to 70800 to donate £10*

Together we can beat blood cancer in this lifetime.

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Bloodwise is a registered charity 216032 (England & Wales), SCO37529 (Scotland).

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The show could save them, but with the weather turning treacherous, things were falling apart RESIDENT Ghosts

As she pulled the curtain back and looked out into the darkness, Caroline commented, ‘It’s a filthy night, Jessica.’ The rain was coming down hard and fast and she heard a rumble of thunder in the distance. ‘I hope it doesn’t put them off coming.’ ‘Are you kidding?’ Jessica laughed. ‘This is perfect. They’re filming a programme about a haunted rectory, not a holiday destination.’ ‘Not yet, anyway,’ Caroline said ruefully. Not for some time to come if she was honest with herself. ‘And that’s another thing,’ Jessica said. ‘When you open this place up as a B&B, you’ll be able to advertise it as seen on Resident Ghosts.’ She put up her fingers as quotes. ‘You know what people are like. They love the paranormal. They’ll be queuing up to stay here and you can give the place a plug on the show.’ Caroline sighed. She hoped it didn’t backfire. Popular as the subject was, she wanted to attract families and couples to the Old Rectory B&B once it was up and running. The whole idea was to have a warm, friendly atmosphere, not scare guests witless. ‘Please tell me you’re not having second thoughts?’ Jessica said. ‘Too late for that,’ Caroline

replied. ‘But let’s see how the week goes before we decide whether to advertise the fact that we were on TV.’ ‘If it goes well,’ Jessica said. ‘We’ll have to work harder than ever to open while it’s still fresh in people’s minds.’ Bless her, Caroline thought. Jessica was an eternal optimist. But most people wouldn’t have heard of the show. She hadn’t until the location agency contacted her. ‘And don’t forget the Americans,’ Jessica added. ‘The show has quite a following in the States. They’ll be flocking here in droves. You might have to turn the back garden into a runway!’ She laughed. It was a ridiculous thought of course. Caroline laughed too, but she couldn’t keep the harshness out of it. This was what happened when you didn’t tell people about yourself. Caroline kept smiling as she mumbled something and hurried into the study, closing the door behind her, shutting Jessica out. ‘Breathe,’ Caroline reminded herself. How stupid to fly into a panic over a few innocent words. But what if someone did come to stay from the States and they recognised her? She couldn’t bear the sympathetic looks which would be inevitable. Her husband, David, was piloting a small plane when it crashed into the Alaskan mountains, killing him and his four passengers. Once the lawsuits had been settled, all Caroline had left was her half share of a property they’d owned in the UK. It had to be sold, but it would have been unthinkable to live there without David anyway. With capital, but no way of getting a mortgage, Caroline had her eye on a modest house with an affordable guide price at auction. She fully intended to buy it, do the work necessary and start rebuilding her life. She’d viewed the house, but at the auction, the price just kept going up and up. Then the Old Rectory came up. The room fell silent and Caroline raised her paddle. She waited for someone to bid against her, but no one did. It was only when she saw the house for the first time that she realised why. The Old Rectory was battered and bruised and in need of a fresh start. Rebuilding the house was like rebuilding her life and as the Old Rectory gradually recovered, so did she. There was still a long way to go and much to be done before she could open to guests, but the end was almost within her grasp. It had been far more than just a cosmetic job. At first, it seemed that every day she uncovered another problem. At least one good thing had come of it: her friendship with Jessica. Jessica’s ex-boyfriend, Ed, had rewired the house and on his last day, asked if he could bring Jessica along with him. She’d taken to Jessica at once and it had nothing to do with the flowers and bottle of The idea was to have a friendly atmosphere, not scare guests witless SERIAL PART ONE

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wine she brought with her.

‘I love this house,’ she said as she walked through the door. ‘I’m so glad you saved it before it ended up being knocked down.’

‘I love it too,’ Caroline said. Jessica helped Ed as he worked and when they sat down for lunch, Caroline asked what work she did. ‘Clerical work,’ Jessica replied. ‘Nothing grand.’

‘Don’t put yourself down,’ Ed said, then he turned to Caroline. ‘She did just about everything at that place. They never saw her worth.’

‘What a shame,’ Caroline said. ‘Would you be interested in helping me out here until you find something else? There is so much to do. I’ve done some plastering and minor repair work, but the place needs decorating.’

‘Are you offering me a job?’

Jessica’s eyes widened.

‘I’m sorry,’ Caroline said. ‘Forget I spoke. It was just a thought.’

‘An amazing one, thank you,’ Jessica said. ‘I would love to help out here for as long as you need me.’ Caroline and Jessica became very close over the following weeks.

She told Jessica that David had died in an accident, but didn’t go into detail.

It came to the point where she almost hoped Jessica wouldn’t get another job because she’d miss her.

It was Jessica’s idea to register the Old Rectory with a location agency after reading an article about it. ‘They’ll pay to use your house as a location for all sorts of things,’ Jessica said eagerly. ‘TV series, movies!’ ‘I think you’re being a bit over optimistic,’ she said. ‘We might end up on a show about how to stop squirrels living in the attic and 10 ways to tackle rising damp, but movies? I hardly think so.’ ‘Well, who knows? You may as well try to make some money out of it until you can open your business,’ Jessica had said. ‘Go on. Email them. You’ve nothing to lose.’

‘I’m willing to try anything,’ Caroline said thoughtfully. She forgot all about it until a production company contacted her with a view to hiring the rectory for a week as a location for their series, Resident Ghosts. And the fee they were willing to pay was more than she expected. Resident Ghosts was on a channel Caroline had never heard of. It was shown five nights a week and the regular presenter, the flamboyant Emmanuel Hunter, was joined by a glamorous medium, Hermione Dove, and a surprise celebrity guest. She watched a few episodes and found it unexpectedly entertaining. They used the word celebrity loosely when it came to the guest star.

The only snag was that Caroline would have to provide beds for the production team, but she’d been assured that folding beds would be fine.

Meals would be provided by an on-site catering truck and all Caroline and Jessica had to do was an occasional piece to camera talking about ghostly encounters.

Not that they’d had any. There was a tap on the door and Jessica came in.

‘Are you OK, Caroline? Did I say something to upset you?’ ‘Not at all,’ Caroline said, her mood much improved.

‘Are you sure you want me here this week?’ she asked. ‘I don’t want to get in the way.’ ‘You’re joking! This was your idea, of course I want you here. Besides, if I hadn’t met you, I’d have given up months ago.’

‘Thanks,’ Jessica said. She still looked drawn, but not as bad as she had a few days ago when she’d turned up at the rectory red-eyed and upset.

‘I’ve broken up with Ed,’ she’d said. ‘I didn’t know where else to go.’

‘You were right to come here,’ Caroline had told her. ‘You can move in with me until you decide what you want to do next.’

Caroline secretly hoped that Jessica and Ed would patch things up and felt that a little time apart might help.

Suddenly, a crack of thunder made them both Continued overleaf

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jump, then Caroline began to laugh. ‘Better and better,’ Jessica said as the rain came down even harder. ‘I hope the roof doesn’t leak,’ Caroline looked up at the ceiling as if expecting a cascade of water to pour down. That was exactly what had happened just after she moved in and repairing the roof had eaten a huge chunk of her remaining capital. ‘Of course it won’t,’ Jessica said as a chirpy tune began to play. Caroline dug into her jeans pocket and saw who was calling. ‘It’s Angelique.’ ‘Mrs Watson? Hi, this is Angelique from Resident Productions. I’m Mr Corbett’s assistant.’ ‘Hi,’ Caroline said. There was a short pause, then Angelique said, ‘Unfortunately, myself and the rest of the production team are unable to make it. We’ve been advised that some of the roads in the area are impassable due to flooding. I’ll be in touch to reschedule filming for another time. Is that all right?’ ‘Yes, yes of course,’ Caroline said. ‘I hope you’re all OK.’ ‘That’s very kind of you,’ Angelique said. ‘Yes, we’re fine, but it would have been reckless to continue. I’m still trying to contact others who may be on their way, so if anyone should turn up, I’d be grateful if you’d let them know about the change of plan.’ ‘I will,’ Caroline said. ‘Thanks for letting me know.’ ‘What’s happened?’ Jessica asked when Caroline finished the call. ‘They’ve decided to cancel filming for this week.’ ‘Oh, no,’ Jessica groaned. ‘What are we going to do?’

Caroline liked the way Jessica said ‘we’, as if it was her problem too. Not that it was a problem really.

‘There’s not a lot we can do,’ she said. ‘We’ll carry on with the painting.’ ‘OK, but I’ll drive down the hill to check if the road into the village is flooded,’ Jessica said. ‘And if it isn’t, I’ll pick up extra supplies, in case we get cut off.’ ‘Is that likely?’ ‘It’s happened before. Last time was about 10 years ago. The rectory was cut off for five days. There was someone living in it then. An old lady, all on her own.’ ‘How awful,’ Caroline said. ‘Poor lady.’ ‘Yes. Legend has it that when it rains, her ghost rushes up and down the stairs looking for an umbrella.’ She saw a man

in her car headlights, standing right in front of her

Caroline choked on a burst of laughter. ‘Is any of that true?’ ‘There was an old lady,’ Jessica said. ‘I don’t know what happened to her.’ ‘If you want to go back to the village for good, I won’t mind,’ Caroline said. ‘No, thank you, but Ed and I are definitely finished.’ Oh, what a shame, Caroline thought.

The first thing to hit the man when he woke up was the cold. It took a few seconds to gather his thoughts, but he couldn’t recall how he’d ended up in a ditch. The last

© TI MEDIA LIMITED, 2020. ILLUSTRATIONS: CAT O’NEIL/KILLINGTON ARTS thing he could recall was coming to a section of road already under several inches of water and thinking he ought to take care as it was too late to turn back. He moved his arms, then his legs. There was pain, but nothing terrible. He unfastened his crash helmet and slung it aside and the sudden onslaught of cold rain helped clear his head. As he groped his way in the darkness and tried to haul himself out of the waterlogged ditch, he found his bike. It was partially submerged. Even if he could get it out, he’d never get the thing started. It was a shame. It was a good bike. He’d done a good few miles on it too. He realised he was lucky to have been thrown off the bike when it left the road. Standing on the bike to help lever himself out of the ditch, he felt it sink deeper into the mud and was momentarily stopped by a feeling of regret before common sense took over and he made one last effort to get out. He collapsed onto the road, struggling to get his breath back. He didn’t even know which way to go, but figured that uphill would be sensible, given the rising flood water. And he remembered where he was heading: the Old Rectory. He was meant to be filming. He hauled himself to his feet and started up the hill, sure he could hear flood water surging behind him. He stopped for a moment to look back, but there was nothing to see in the darkness, until a clap of thunder shook the ground and lightning lit up the sky. The road was flooded. He wondered what on earth he was doing here on a night like this. Why had he thrown away a perfectly good career as a vet to do this? When he turned to start up the hill again, the lightning made sparks appear in his vision, until he realised it was a car’s headlights coming towards him. Relief flooded through him as he lifted his arms to signal the driver to stop. But the car didn’t slow down, the driver didn’t seem to see him. At the last minute, he threw himself to one side, bracing himself for the impact he knew was coming. Jessica jumped and gripped the wheel tighter as lightning flashed. She lifted her foot off the accelerator slightly. She thought she’d glimpsed something at the side of the road as she drove slowly down the hill. For a split second, she took her eyes off the road and when she returned her attention to the windscreen, she saw a man in her car headlights, standing right in front of her, his arms raised. She swerved violently and the car spun out of control. There was a sickening jolt as she hit something. She rammed her foot on the brake pedal and the car stopped, the engine stalling. ‘Oh, God,’ she cried. ‘What have I done?’ CONTINUES NEXT WEEK Teresa Ashby, 2020