This month…

As we continue to mark our 35th anniversary, we are reminded of these words from former editor Charlotte Lessing in our very first issue: “Country Living is for everyone whose heart is in the country and who believes there is a better quality of life to be found far from the madding crowd.” This June, we invite you to escape the everyday once more, with a sparkling selection of special birthday features. We begin in a nostalgic mood on page 32, where executive editor Vicky Carlisle takes a trip down memory lane with Kirstie Allsopp (left). Kirstie may be a household name now but her first ‘proper job’ was making tea at Country Living. Vicky, who was features editor at the time, recalls that Kirstie was “like an over-excited puppy” but adds that “her star quality was evident even back then!” We continue the celebratory theme with part two of our round-up of celebrity countryside memories on page 60, decadent cakes on page 52 and birthday bouquets on page 94.

Like many of you, some of our contributors have been with us for several years now. Garden editor Paula Mcwaters (below left) is one of those. This month, she tells us how to grow top tomatoes and where to find the best ‘virtual garden visits’ in her usual edit of horticultural tips (page 133). Meanwhile, group art editor Roger Browning (below right), also a long-standing member of our ‘family’, reveals how he plans to spend his staycation this summer in our round-up of favourite at-home activities from the CL team (page 64). Finally, on page 92, we salute our emblem of the past 35 years – the dapper mallard. And, as we all endeavour to stay afloat in choppy waters, we’d like to say thank you for supporting us down the decades!

The Country Living team

PS If you’re not already part of the Country Living family, there’s never been a better time to subscribe and enjoy all our content delivered to your door. See page 100 for our special joining offer. Or order the latest issue from magsdirect.co.uk/countryliving for free next-day delivery.