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By Beverley Nielsen | Butterflies float in and out of Sandra and Neale’s kitchen as their conservatory opens on to a buddleja in full bloom. The couple have just extended their house, not far from Hanbury Hall, by adding extra space to accommodate a large office.
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Sunny aspect: Sandra and Neale's house near Hanbury Hall | When they first moved in the property had a Rayburn dating from 1964. It was still going, but Sandra decided it was time for a new one. It’s cream and it heats all 15 radiators, together with all their hot water.
They have it on low throughout the day, only turning it up half an hour before cooking the family meal. And there’s no doubt their Labradors, Lucy and Jazzy, appreciate it.
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Flexible friend: the Rayburn has many uses | “I wouldn’t be without it,” says Sandra. “In the winter it’s so welcoming, radiating heat through the kitchen. People always stand in front of it. It’s a magnet creating a lovely atmosphere in the room. On a hot summer’s day like today, you can either turn it off completely, or just keep it on very low.”
Neale also finds cooking relaxing, especially after a day out with his team putting up marquees in the baking sun.
“I enjoy slow cooking and putting more time into mealtimes, so we can eat together as a family. I like to steam fish and vegetables on the top. I like roasting root vegetables, as well as cooking casseroles, joints and roasts in the top oven.
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Pet magnet: Lucy and Jazzy love the Rayburn | “I find it great for dinner parties – you can use the different ovens to ensure that everything is ready at the same time and it’s really good for keeping plates and dishes warm in the lower oven.”
Sandra likes being able to dry all their washing over the Rayburn, not to mention their pots and pans.
“I think we’d be surprised at how much we’d miss it if it wasn’t there anymore,” she adds. “I wouldn’t like to have to use a conventional oven again.” |
