AT the last meeting a large audience visited several privately owned country houses in the lowlands and border country of Scotland with David Brown, the Regional Officer for the National Trust and an expert on country houses and gardens.

Many of these had somewhat grey exteriors although they weren't without architectural interest, but fortunately they also had sumptuous interiors with wonderful 17th century plaster ceilings, warm fabrics, pictures galore and superb furniture, often by Gillows of Lancaster.

Invariably a fine mantelpiece would have a Gainsborough portrait above and a dilapidated and dangerous electric fire below. Often the homes were set with views over estuaries and moorland and had early 19th century Victorian gardens.

Tillingham House with its heated walled garden was particularly notable as was the Hirsel Castle and gardens, formerly the home of the late Sir Alec Douglas-Home.

This was a delightful evening, giving members a chance to visit privately owned houses not normally open to the public, although increasingly they are having to consider providing de-luxe bed and breakfast to ensure their future survival.

The society's final talk of 2001 will take place on Fridayat Trinity High School at 7.30pm. In a talk entitled 'Christmas is pass' Dorothy Bishop will reflect on our Christmas preparations. Details from 01386 792082.