Betty Middleton had only moved in two weeks earlier, but already she was starting to annoy me with her frequent knocks at my back door. “Would you like a slice of my lemon drizzle? It’s home-made!” No

France may be synonymous with fromage, but the terroir of our green and pleasant land gives rise to all manner of magnificent varieties of our own, declares Tom Parker Bowles, who picks his favourites

A village hall mystery doesn’t quite go to plan

Our columnist fondly recalls her childhood Christmases – apart from the time the milk ran out!

IT’S all over town, Ada,” Mrs Francome declared, leaning forward with her basket. “Butter and bacon to be rationed once Christmas ends! “That’ll be just the start, mark my words.” “It’s already starte

While Tessa Waugh can never predict whether she’ll turn into a misanthrope or hostess with the mostest at her home meet, the day is a roaring success – with sausage rolls, sunshine and smiles