‘he wept as he told me their story’

All around was snowy and frozen – yet someone was making Maria’s heart melt

It’s time to declutter and deep-clean your home in time for the new season ahead. Just follow our easy steps

Our latest fiction writing competition asked entrants to pen a love story, and we found find three romantic tales which we’re sure you’ll enjoy over the next few pages. Congratulations to Daniel Taylor with The Clockmaker’s Valentine , which you can read overleaf, along with two runners-up. Plus on page 58, find out details about our next themed short story competition...

AS PART OF OUR 40TH BIRTHDAY CELEBR ATIONS, WE SHOWC A SE THE TECH, TRENDS AND EVENTS TAKING ROOT IN THE WORLD OF GA RDENING THIS SUMMER – AND ANNOUNCE AN EXCITING COLL ABOR ATION WITH HOR ATIO’S GA RDEN AT THE CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

Head to the Austrian alps for a hiking and spa break that will leave you feeling on top of the world, says travel writer Mary Comber.

I f the brighter days have inspired you ...