The extent of the damage along the East Wall had effectively been overlooked until now. Perhaps it was the gleeming contrast of the Melon House which highlighted it. In any event, the coping stones were missing in places and this had precipitated further degradation within the lower brick work.

It is hard to describe the sense of pleasure and relief that we all shared as the last sash window was carefully fitted to the framework.

WARNING - when bees are about to swarm, a change in gear and direction may be unavoidable.

There are no words to explain the magic that surrounds the world of Bees. Observing their behavior is a privilege but, interaction is the key to learning more about them; and us.

The swarm gathers on a nearby Lilac branch. We prepare to receive our new guests.

Janet and Karen get things all sorted while I continue to keep my distance. A truly memorable moment. Thanks again for the honey.. .

"Why are we doing this?" That's not a complaint, but a good question non the less.

The Melon House must have looked much like this when it was first being constructed, over 150 years before.

Attention to detail is a necessary part of the policy with restoration work. However, it carries a price which must be paid in the future.

It was agreed that two original features  needed to be reviewed in the interests of common sense. The alternately sliding sash frames were not well conceived in their original design and should not be replicated for the sake of copying.

Glass technology has advanced massively over the years. A single pane of modern glass can be much longer and reduce maintenance costs.

There were plenty of other design quirks to descover along the way, providing us with invaluable insight for later restoration challenges.

Glad that's resolved

Archeology studies concerning the first two bays of the Vinery are now completed, signalling a green light to fire up the cement mixer again.

Laying new foundations in the Vinery is now critical to preserving the restored back buildings and cellars on the other side of the wall.

Roy and John acknowledge the task

and proceed accordingly