A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR.

It’s been a long winter hasn’t it? Grey skies, unrelenting cold and persistent rain. Thank goodness for the plethora of bank holidays we have at this time of the year. As we approach the bonus coronation weekend it feels like a time to celebrate. Not just as King Charles is crowned, but for lots of reasons. The beginning of the warmer season (fingers crossed), the longer days, green trees, beautiful flowers, wildlife and new life. But most of all I love the fact we can sit comfortably outside in our gardens, pubs and cafes.

We’re busy ordering plants and creating shade as we get to grips again with our garden which was landscaped last year. Gardens can be hard work, but like lots of people I don’t mind, it’s just so rewarding and good for the soul. We’ll sit outside over the long-weekend celebrating, eating cake and drinking cocktails (I don’t care if it’s raining!)

Find my recipe for coronation red velvet cup-cakes on p36 and for a fascinating insight into our local royal history turn to page 14.

Turn to page 6 to find out about the Anne Frank Tree at Batsford Arboretum – an important feature I found incredibly moving to write and research. Discover the vital work of the humble hedgerow on page 32 and on page 26 how one person’s honesty about loneliness is going to change things for the better for everyone.

As ever, putting together this issue has been a joy for myself and the further CotswoldXL team. We love getting out and about and meeting local people and businesses. So, if you feel like getting in touch, do it, we’d love to chat to you and I’m happy to travel.

Have a wonderful coronation weekend and enjoy the delights of May.

Mide x