North Devon

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0:00:04 > 0:00:06This impressive White Scout car

0:00:06 > 0:00:10was built in 1943 during the Second World War

0:00:10 > 0:00:13and is just part of one of the largest privately owned collections

0:00:13 > 0:00:17of military equipment in the UK.

0:00:17 > 0:00:21In just a moment, I will tell you where we are and why it has such

0:00:21 > 0:00:24a special significance for where we are today.

0:00:47 > 0:00:51Today, it's a love of the arts that is driving an imaginative twosome to

0:00:51 > 0:00:56head south, and imaginations are allowed to run wild.

0:00:56 > 0:00:59Simple, elegant, but functional.

0:00:59 > 0:01:02- Yes.- I thought he was talking about you for a minute there!

0:01:02 > 0:01:05- LAUGHTER - No.

0:01:05 > 0:01:08And fortunately for our pair, when it comes to properties,

0:01:08 > 0:01:10size doesn't matter.

0:01:10 > 0:01:11Beams are rather nice.

0:01:11 > 0:01:13Perhaps a little low, but we are only short.

0:01:18 > 0:01:20Today I'm in Devon, at the

0:01:20 > 0:01:23Cobbaton Combat Collection, which started off

0:01:23 > 0:01:29as one man's schoolboy hobby and has grown to encompass over 50 military

0:01:29 > 0:01:34vehicles and artillery pieces, as well as thousands of smaller items.

0:01:34 > 0:01:38This Scout car behind me wears the colours of the local Royal Devon

0:01:38 > 0:01:41Yeomanry Regiment based in nearby

0:01:41 > 0:01:43Barnstable, and vehicles like this would

0:01:43 > 0:01:48have followed the 2nd Battalion to Normandy for the D-Day landings.

0:01:48 > 0:01:52Later on, I will be meeting the men behind this impressive collection

0:01:52 > 0:01:55and seeing more of these magnificent machines.

0:01:57 > 0:02:00The county of Devon sits in the South West of England.

0:02:00 > 0:02:02It shares three county borders,

0:02:02 > 0:02:06including Cornwall's, and meets the Bristol Channel to the north

0:02:06 > 0:02:09with the English Channel to the south.

0:02:09 > 0:02:12The southern coastline is dominated by both sandy beaches and fossil

0:02:12 > 0:02:16cliffs, whilst the northern edge is characterised by sheltered coves,

0:02:16 > 0:02:19fringed by rocky outcrops like those at Croyde and Woolacombe,

0:02:19 > 0:02:23as well as the dramatic dunes on display at Saunton Sands.

0:02:24 > 0:02:27Meeting the ocean in North Devon is Exmoor National Park,

0:02:27 > 0:02:30which spills into neighbouring Somerset.

0:02:32 > 0:02:36The 267 miles of hills here are home to wild Exmoor ponies,

0:02:36 > 0:02:40of which there are fewer than 1,000 found throughout the world.

0:02:41 > 0:02:45Moving inland, the historic market town of Barnstaple is the social

0:02:45 > 0:02:48centre of North Devon and was an important trading centre

0:02:48 > 0:02:51for wool and pottery in the 16th and 17th centuries.

0:02:53 > 0:02:57In fact, Barnstable pottery has been found in archaeological excavations

0:02:57 > 0:03:00as far away as Maryland in the USA.

0:03:02 > 0:03:05So, with its natural beauty and quaint villages,

0:03:05 > 0:03:08where pastel-coloured cottages are topped with thatched roofs,

0:03:08 > 0:03:12Devon is a county that showcases England at its very best.

0:03:16 > 0:03:20With miles of gorgeous coastline and wild moorlands that appeal to

0:03:20 > 0:03:22tourists and locals alike,

0:03:22 > 0:03:25you'd expect Devon to be an expensive place to live,

0:03:25 > 0:03:28yet the average price of a detached

0:03:28 > 0:03:33property here is only around £13,000 above the national figure.

0:03:33 > 0:03:35Now, along with all this natural beauty,

0:03:35 > 0:03:39one of the biggest draws for many people is the famous

0:03:39 > 0:03:40Devon cream tea,

0:03:40 > 0:03:43which is estimated to contribute

0:03:43 > 0:03:47around £85 million a year to the local economy.

0:03:47 > 0:03:50But after all the activities today's buyers

0:03:50 > 0:03:53are planning with this move, will they have time

0:03:53 > 0:03:56for this delicious delicacy? Let's find out.

0:03:57 > 0:03:59Former art teacher Maggie and her

0:03:59 > 0:04:02retired IT professional husband Martin

0:04:02 > 0:04:04met at school and have been together for 46 years.

0:04:06 > 0:04:09Maggie is very creative.

0:04:09 > 0:04:14She is different to me in that she is a little less organised,

0:04:14 > 0:04:18perhaps a little bit more of an artistic temperament, let me say...

0:04:19 > 0:04:21..but we make a good couple.

0:04:22 > 0:04:27Martin has got quite strong opinions, he can be very forceful,

0:04:27 > 0:04:30but he also has a lot of charm.

0:04:32 > 0:04:33After a lifetime of work,

0:04:33 > 0:04:37they have decided to live the dream and leave the five-bedroom

0:04:37 > 0:04:39Stockport semi they have shared for over 30 years.

0:04:40 > 0:04:45As happy living in Stockport as we once were, we have both retired

0:04:45 > 0:04:47so we don't have any particular reason to be

0:04:47 > 0:04:48hanging around this area.

0:04:48 > 0:04:52We live on a major road, which is busy.

0:04:52 > 0:04:53And although it is not particularly noisy,

0:04:53 > 0:04:56it does mean that we do not really have much of a community

0:04:56 > 0:04:58on this stretch of the road.

0:04:58 > 0:05:01It will be a terrible shame to leave the house but there are times

0:05:01 > 0:05:02when you just have to move on.

0:05:02 > 0:05:07And this doesn't give us, really, the life that we aspire to

0:05:07 > 0:05:08going forward, I think.

0:05:11 > 0:05:12And after visiting the region,

0:05:12 > 0:05:15they have decided it's Devon that they would like to call home.

0:05:15 > 0:05:22It has got the coastline, I love the coast, we want countryside.

0:05:22 > 0:05:25It is warmer down there and I am getting a bit old,

0:05:25 > 0:05:29so I don't really want to be enduring really cold winters.

0:05:29 > 0:05:33So Devon seems to offer all the things we really like.

0:05:33 > 0:05:35And when they move south,

0:05:35 > 0:05:40they are keen to devote more time to their hobbies, both outdoors and in.

0:05:40 > 0:05:43When I retired, just under two years ago,

0:05:43 > 0:05:47I started to do some things that I had not done that I have always

0:05:47 > 0:05:52wanted to. I took up pottery and I take a pottery class once a week.

0:05:53 > 0:05:58I've always been interested in craft things so I took up peg looming.

0:05:58 > 0:06:02And at the moment I tend to do peg looming in the winter.

0:06:04 > 0:06:05I am a felt maker...

0:06:07 > 0:06:11..but I am also a fine artist and I want to paint more.

0:06:11 > 0:06:15So I would like to be able to go out with my paints and sit on a hillside

0:06:15 > 0:06:19in Devon, and paint the sea and paint the things I can see around me.

0:06:20 > 0:06:24So with their heads full of ideas, this creative couple can't wait

0:06:24 > 0:06:27to get stuck in to their new country life.

0:06:27 > 0:06:30From our perspective, when we are moving to an area

0:06:30 > 0:06:35we want to feel part of that area, that community,

0:06:35 > 0:06:40get engaged locally with people, with activities.

0:06:40 > 0:06:42I think, when we finally do it,

0:06:42 > 0:06:45then that will be the start of something new,

0:06:45 > 0:06:49but also the end of a chapter and we will be able to close that book

0:06:49 > 0:06:52and open the new book.

0:06:54 > 0:06:55Maggie and Martin have decided

0:06:55 > 0:06:58to plant their arty roots in the northern half of Devon,

0:06:58 > 0:07:01so that's where we are focusing our search.

0:07:01 > 0:07:04Ahead of our quest to find them their dream home,

0:07:04 > 0:07:07I am meeting them in the county to discuss the finer details of

0:07:07 > 0:07:09their requirements.

0:07:09 > 0:07:12Martin and Maggie, welcome to Devon, the two of you.

0:07:12 > 0:07:14- BOTH:- Thank you very much.

0:07:14 > 0:07:16Does Stockport feel a long way away for you now?

0:07:16 > 0:07:18It certainly does feel a long way away.

0:07:18 > 0:07:24Having made the break and made the decision, now this is the new life.

0:07:24 > 0:07:27So you both love this county but does it feel like home?

0:07:27 > 0:07:32It does. As soon as we got here to start looking around,

0:07:32 > 0:07:33we just felt really comfortable.

0:07:33 > 0:07:35Partial to a cream tea, I hope?

0:07:35 > 0:07:38- Oh, yes.- Unfortunately.

0:07:38 > 0:07:39Me too.

0:07:39 > 0:07:42There is a sense of urgency with this house-hunt

0:07:42 > 0:07:45because I believe you got some good news yesterday.

0:07:45 > 0:07:49We have exchanged contracts. The downside, slightly,

0:07:49 > 0:07:53is that we have a completion date, which is only two weeks away.

0:07:53 > 0:07:57So, we are homeless in two weeks' time.

0:07:57 > 0:07:58Right.

0:07:58 > 0:08:02I hope there is going to be something really good this week.

0:08:02 > 0:08:04Nothing like being homeless in two weeks' time

0:08:04 > 0:08:06to really focus the mind with our houses.

0:08:06 > 0:08:08Yes, that's right.

0:08:08 > 0:08:09What is it that you are after?

0:08:09 > 0:08:13We want somewhere that is on the outskirts of a village,

0:08:13 > 0:08:15because we'd like people to talk to.

0:08:15 > 0:08:18We also want somewhere where we can have a studio.

0:08:18 > 0:08:22- So you're after a workshop, for both of you, is that right?- That's right.

0:08:22 > 0:08:24So a workshop is up there as a priority,

0:08:24 > 0:08:27but tell me about the actual house you are after, as well.

0:08:27 > 0:08:30We want a garden, somewhere I can grow vegetables.

0:08:30 > 0:08:34We want it to be light and airy. We have had a big Victorian house,

0:08:34 > 0:08:37we don't want to be too claustrophobic moving to a smaller house.

0:08:37 > 0:08:41We are fairly relaxed about styles.

0:08:41 > 0:08:45We would like a bit of quirkiness.

0:08:45 > 0:08:47How many bedrooms?

0:08:47 > 0:08:48Three would be good.

0:08:48 > 0:08:51What about views?

0:08:51 > 0:08:53Views are important. It is such a beautiful county,

0:08:53 > 0:08:56it would be a shame not to be able to see it from the house.

0:08:56 > 0:09:00Hypothetically, if one or two of the properties don't have a workshop

0:09:00 > 0:09:03already done, are you happy to take on a little bit

0:09:03 > 0:09:05of a project and build one yourselves?

0:09:05 > 0:09:07Yes, we would certainly do that.

0:09:07 > 0:09:11We appreciate it is not always possible to find something suitable.

0:09:11 > 0:09:16So, what is our top budget? Remind us again what we're working with.

0:09:17 > 0:09:24Ideally it's going to be 350,000, but there is a bit of wiggle room.

0:09:24 > 0:09:27If we can find somewhere with a good studio,

0:09:27 > 0:09:29so we don't have to spend a huge amount of money on that,

0:09:29 > 0:09:32I think we could probably run up to

0:09:32 > 0:09:34around 380,000 for the right property.

0:09:34 > 0:09:38Well, we do have some splendid homes to show you.

0:09:38 > 0:09:41We know time is of the essence, so shall we get started?

0:09:41 > 0:09:42- Let's go.- Come on, then.

0:09:45 > 0:09:48For their top budget of £380,000,

0:09:48 > 0:09:51Maggie and Martin want a character home with three bedrooms.

0:09:51 > 0:09:56The outside space is important and should offer options to grow fruit

0:09:56 > 0:09:58and vegetables, as well as a workshop in which

0:09:58 > 0:09:59to base their hobbies.

0:09:59 > 0:10:01Location-wise, they would like a place

0:10:01 > 0:10:04where they can get stuck in to the local community.

0:10:05 > 0:10:08The properties we have chosen will provide Maggie and Martin with a

0:10:08 > 0:10:12variety of styles, but it will only be after they have seen each one

0:10:12 > 0:10:14that its price will be revealed.

0:10:14 > 0:10:17The final visit to the Mystery House will require them to open their

0:10:17 > 0:10:20creative minds but, if they do,

0:10:20 > 0:10:22I think they will be very pleasantly surprised.

0:10:27 > 0:10:30So, this is it now.

0:10:30 > 0:10:31Got to search for this perfect home,

0:10:31 > 0:10:34or as close to perfect as we can get it.

0:10:35 > 0:10:38How long have you both been planning this move?

0:10:38 > 0:10:42We've been talking about it for the last 20 years.

0:10:42 > 0:10:47But planning it, probably about six months ago.

0:10:47 > 0:10:51It's getting tantalisingly close now you've sold your home.

0:10:51 > 0:10:54Yes, it's getting slightly scarily close but it's

0:10:54 > 0:10:55so exciting as well.

0:10:59 > 0:11:02We're heading to the small town of North Tawton in mid Devon.

0:11:03 > 0:11:07It has a villagey feel with its centre providing all

0:11:07 > 0:11:11the essentials and more, and it's surrounded by gentle hills.

0:11:11 > 0:11:14There's plenty here to bring the community together, including

0:11:14 > 0:11:17the town hall that gave North Tawton its town status.

0:11:19 > 0:11:22At its heart is St Peter's Church, whose statuesque tower

0:11:22 > 0:11:26is its oldest feature, dating back to the 13th century.

0:11:28 > 0:11:31Standing in the shadow of the church is our first offering.

0:11:31 > 0:11:35Thought to have been built in the late 1700s or early 1800s,

0:11:35 > 0:11:40this charming stone cottage is topped with a slate roof.

0:11:40 > 0:11:42Right. Interesting.

0:11:42 > 0:11:45As you notice, it is semidetached.

0:11:45 > 0:11:48- This little private road - you've got shared access to this road.- OK.

0:11:48 > 0:11:51So first impressions, Maggie?

0:11:51 > 0:11:53It looks lovely. It really does.

0:11:53 > 0:11:55Very traditional.

0:11:55 > 0:11:57And a beautiful view with the church and everything here,

0:11:57 > 0:12:00so, yes, fantastic.

0:12:00 > 0:12:02Shall we step inside and start our first tour?

0:12:02 > 0:12:04- Definitely.- Yes, please.

0:12:04 > 0:12:05- Follow me.- Right.

0:12:08 > 0:12:13The front door leads straight into a wide, bright entrance hall.

0:12:13 > 0:12:15And to its left, the sitting room looks out to the front.

0:12:17 > 0:12:21A stone fireplace houses an inviting wooden coal-burning stove.

0:12:22 > 0:12:23Right, lovely.

0:12:23 > 0:12:25This is lovely. Nice and cosy.

0:12:25 > 0:12:28Yes, cosy is definitely the first word you'd use.

0:12:28 > 0:12:33It's quite small but not claustrophobic at all.

0:12:33 > 0:12:36This room is dominated by the fireplace, isn't it?

0:12:36 > 0:12:40- Oh, I can certainly see our winter evenings in front of that.- Lovely.

0:12:40 > 0:12:42That would work well.

0:12:42 > 0:12:44A good start to our first room.

0:12:44 > 0:12:46Next door, you've got the dining room.

0:12:46 > 0:12:48I'm going to lead you through and show you the kitchen.

0:12:48 > 0:12:50Lovely.

0:12:51 > 0:12:54The sunny dining room is sandwiched between the sitting room

0:12:54 > 0:12:56and the traditional L-shaped kitchen.

0:12:56 > 0:12:59It's dual aspect and features a Butler sink.

0:13:01 > 0:13:03You probably guessed this is an extension

0:13:03 > 0:13:06because that would have been the outside wall.

0:13:06 > 0:13:09Believed to have been done around the 1950s, this kitchen.

0:13:09 > 0:13:11- Right.- Yes, it does have that look.

0:13:11 > 0:13:13It does. Do you like it?

0:13:13 > 0:13:15I do quite like it, yes.

0:13:15 > 0:13:17I could see this working OK for us.

0:13:17 > 0:13:21If you look out of this window, you can see you've got your

0:13:21 > 0:13:24vegetable plot there, all ready for the new seeds to go in.

0:13:24 > 0:13:27- Is that something you are keen on doing?- Yes.

0:13:27 > 0:13:29But I'm going to take you upstairs next.

0:13:29 > 0:13:34This charming cottage is delivering so far and upstairs is just as cosy.

0:13:34 > 0:13:38There is a beautifully finished family bathroom and three bedrooms,

0:13:38 > 0:13:42all with added character from their position in the eaves.

0:13:42 > 0:13:45There is one to the rear which overlooks the side of the home.

0:13:46 > 0:13:48Another overlooking the front.

0:13:50 > 0:13:52And next to that is the master.

0:13:53 > 0:13:55- Cosy again.- Yes.

0:13:55 > 0:13:57Cosy, yes.

0:13:57 > 0:13:59But enough space for the two of you?

0:13:59 > 0:14:03Yes, the bedroom is not really an issue for us in terms of space.

0:14:03 > 0:14:06Of course, there are two sides to this property search.

0:14:06 > 0:14:08There is the house, which we want you to love,

0:14:08 > 0:14:12but I would say nearly as important is the workshop or the space

0:14:12 > 0:14:14outside for the two of you.

0:14:14 > 0:14:17So let's see how we're doing with this first property.

0:14:17 > 0:14:19If you wouldn't mind leading the way. Thank you.

0:14:23 > 0:14:27Outside, the enclosed garden extends to around 100 feet,

0:14:27 > 0:14:29and is divided into vegetable plots

0:14:29 > 0:14:33and lawn with the added bonus of two outbuildings ideal for storage.

0:14:33 > 0:14:36But when it comes to hobbies, there is even more.

0:14:37 > 0:14:39It's a lovely little garden.

0:14:39 > 0:14:41- It's obviously a sun trap. - It's pleasant, actually.

0:14:41 > 0:14:45It's a very reasonable outside space to spend some time in.

0:14:45 > 0:14:49- Good.- It doesn't have fantastically wide views

0:14:49 > 0:14:54but for a more central location it is actually very reasonable indeed.

0:14:54 > 0:14:58Good. As you come out of the door you can see what looks like a garage.

0:14:58 > 0:15:01The actual owners have converted into a workshop.

0:15:01 > 0:15:02There is a wood burner in there.

0:15:02 > 0:15:06So it's all kitted out, it's whether it's big enough for the two of you.

0:15:06 > 0:15:08But I'll let you explore that on your own.

0:15:08 > 0:15:09But there is a workshop there.

0:15:09 > 0:15:12So let's see how you get on with the price.

0:15:12 > 0:15:14Maggie, do you want to go first?

0:15:14 > 0:15:16Erm...

0:15:16 > 0:15:19I think I'm going to go 340,000.

0:15:19 > 0:15:20OK.

0:15:20 > 0:15:25Yes, I think we would have a reasonable amount to do here.

0:15:25 > 0:15:27I would probably go a little bit less than that, actually -

0:15:27 > 0:15:30I'd probably go closer to 325.

0:15:30 > 0:15:34Well, you're both out with your estimates.

0:15:34 > 0:15:37The actual asking price for this property is...

0:15:37 > 0:15:39£275,000.

0:15:39 > 0:15:41- Oh, wow.- OK.

0:15:41 > 0:15:44Well, that gives us a bit more scope.

0:15:44 > 0:15:49- It does.- Exactly. Just over £100,000 left over.

0:15:49 > 0:15:51We could get a nice workshop for that, couldn't we?

0:15:51 > 0:15:55Yes, I like your thinking there, I like your thinking.

0:15:55 > 0:15:56What about you, Maggie?

0:15:56 > 0:15:57How do you feel about that price?

0:15:57 > 0:15:59I think the price is fantastic.

0:15:59 > 0:16:02It really does make you realise the potential

0:16:02 > 0:16:04we could have to live here.

0:16:04 > 0:16:06We could do so much stuff.

0:16:06 > 0:16:09That's a very, very good starting point, I think.

0:16:09 > 0:16:12OK, well, I'm going to send you off. I know where you'll go first -

0:16:12 > 0:16:14you're going to go and have a look at that workshop.

0:16:14 > 0:16:17And check out the piece of land to the side of it cos you could put

0:16:17 > 0:16:19- an additional building on there if you wanted to.- OK.

0:16:19 > 0:16:20We'll certainly have a look.

0:16:20 > 0:16:22- Be my guest. Thank you.- Thanks.

0:16:25 > 0:16:28Well, I think a really, really good start.

0:16:28 > 0:16:32Way under their budget - £100,000 under their budget.

0:16:32 > 0:16:35It is quite a small property - they're used to a larger house -

0:16:35 > 0:16:38but it is a great indicator of what they can get in this

0:16:38 > 0:16:39part of the county.

0:16:41 > 0:16:43Coming in at a generous amount under Martin

0:16:43 > 0:16:45and Maggie's top budget,

0:16:45 > 0:16:48this semidetached 19th-century stone cottage offers

0:16:48 > 0:16:53plenty of character along with three bedrooms, a multifunctional

0:16:53 > 0:16:57garden, a workshop, and it sits in the heart of the community.

0:17:00 > 0:17:02- Interesting.- Yes.

0:17:02 > 0:17:04It's not a bad space.

0:17:04 > 0:17:06I could see it working for you.

0:17:06 > 0:17:08Yes, it's nice and light and airy.

0:17:08 > 0:17:12Yes, I'm not sure I fancy putting a kiln in here, though.

0:17:12 > 0:17:14No, with the potter's wheel.

0:17:14 > 0:17:18With the wheel as well, I think we would struggle.

0:17:18 > 0:17:20- We be fighting for space, wouldn't we?- Yes, I think so.

0:17:23 > 0:17:25I think it's a really lovely little house.

0:17:25 > 0:17:29It's quirky and has lots of character.

0:17:29 > 0:17:31It's a very welcoming house.

0:17:31 > 0:17:33I think it's a nice property.

0:17:33 > 0:17:36With a little bit of work it could be very, very nice indeed.

0:17:38 > 0:17:40- All right?- Indeed.

0:17:40 > 0:17:43Not a bad first property.

0:17:43 > 0:17:44- Ready to hit the road?- Oh, yes.

0:17:44 > 0:17:46- I think so.- Good, come on, then.

0:17:53 > 0:17:57Devon's beautiful backdrop has provided inspiration to countless

0:17:57 > 0:18:01craftspeople and has also proved a draw for our creative couple.

0:18:01 > 0:18:05They are excited about indulging in their passion for the arts within

0:18:05 > 0:18:06its boundaries.

0:18:06 > 0:18:08They have come to meet Marek Drzazga,

0:18:08 > 0:18:11who was also drawn to the county over 20 years ago

0:18:11 > 0:18:15to base his bespoke architectural pottery business.

0:18:15 > 0:18:19With 45 years as a potter behind him, he's happy to share his

0:18:19 > 0:18:23love of the art and the skill he's acquired with Maggie and Martin.

0:18:23 > 0:18:25They are meeting him at his studio on the outskirts of the village of

0:18:25 > 0:18:29Chittlehamholt, south of Barnstaple.

0:18:29 > 0:18:30What a beautiful place!

0:18:30 > 0:18:35Fantastic. What got you into pottery in the first place?

0:18:35 > 0:18:38Probably as a six-year-old kid

0:18:38 > 0:18:41in Cookham on Thames, seeing dragon finials.

0:18:41 > 0:18:42Wow.

0:18:42 > 0:18:44I was always interested in

0:18:44 > 0:18:46architecture and then when I discovered it at

0:18:46 > 0:18:49art college in the early 20s, that was it.

0:18:51 > 0:18:55Finials are designed to decorate the apex of a gabled roof.

0:18:55 > 0:18:59Creations such as Marek's finely crafted examples were popular

0:18:59 > 0:19:03in Gothic and Victorian times but date back much further.

0:19:03 > 0:19:06What do you particularly love about clay and pottery?

0:19:06 > 0:19:09Everything. I just immerse myself in it, I love it.

0:19:09 > 0:19:10Absolutely love it.

0:19:10 > 0:19:14And is there a strong sort of community down here of potters

0:19:14 > 0:19:16and craftspeople generally?

0:19:16 > 0:19:18You would find in the West Country,

0:19:18 > 0:19:22being a sort of out-flung area, people work

0:19:22 > 0:19:26together more closely than in town so there is a strong community,

0:19:26 > 0:19:30arts community, and it works very, very well.

0:19:30 > 0:19:32Although Marek's pottery is created in the Devonshire

0:19:32 > 0:19:36countryside, the consistency of the local clay isn't suitable

0:19:36 > 0:19:39for his work, so it is sourced from Stoke-on-Trent.

0:19:39 > 0:19:44Unlike Martin's creations, Marek's designs are on a larger scale.

0:19:44 > 0:19:48His motto is, "If you can imagine it, we can make it."

0:19:48 > 0:19:52The sorts of things that you do - it's more of an architectural

0:19:52 > 0:19:55- ceramics, really, isn't it? - Absolutely.

0:19:55 > 0:19:57It is basically

0:19:57 > 0:20:00clay work for buildings -

0:20:00 > 0:20:04ridge tiles, chimney pots, finials and bricks.

0:20:06 > 0:20:08Marek has built up a global client list

0:20:08 > 0:20:10and makes each detailed piece to order.

0:20:10 > 0:20:14He is currently working on a collection of 16th-century-inspired

0:20:14 > 0:20:16chimney pots for a private client.

0:20:16 > 0:20:20When assembled, they stand at five feet tall.

0:20:20 > 0:20:23He uses a combination of traditional methods with his own techniques

0:20:23 > 0:20:26and is showing Maggie and Martin how to craft the top

0:20:26 > 0:20:29of the monumental pots.

0:20:29 > 0:20:33The method I've developed, basically I call it skimming,

0:20:33 > 0:20:37and this is turning a round object into an octagonal.

0:20:37 > 0:20:41It is basically pulling a template

0:20:41 > 0:20:43through the form.

0:20:43 > 0:20:47- OK.- And skimming away...

0:20:49 > 0:20:54..the clay. And progress all the way around, lightly at first.

0:20:58 > 0:21:00Marek uses water to keep the clay lubricated.

0:21:02 > 0:21:07After a short period of time, you actually get a very sharp edge

0:21:07 > 0:21:09on the whole thing.

0:21:09 > 0:21:12So, if you want to give it a shot.

0:21:12 > 0:21:14Yes, please, because I'm all togged up.

0:21:14 > 0:21:17Right, there you go. Over to you.

0:21:18 > 0:21:24So, if you keep it firmly down and pull it towards you.

0:21:24 > 0:21:27That's right. Just lightly with that and pull toward yourself.

0:21:27 > 0:21:31If you get it locked down at the bottom, pull towards yourself,

0:21:31 > 0:21:34nice and steady. Absolutely perfect.

0:21:34 > 0:21:39Architectural ceramics have varied over the centuries

0:21:39 > 0:21:43and presumably that'll mean choosing different clays,

0:21:43 > 0:21:45different techniques and so on.

0:21:45 > 0:21:50Not so much clays, more the various techniques.

0:21:50 > 0:21:54- The techniques will come about because of the different shapes.- OK.

0:21:54 > 0:21:57So certain things, like in Edwardian times you would have more

0:21:57 > 0:22:02rectangular, octagonal chimney pots,

0:22:02 > 0:22:04as opposed to the round or whatever,

0:22:04 > 0:22:07and so you have to make it differently.

0:22:07 > 0:22:09- Can I have a go, then? - All right, then.

0:22:09 > 0:22:10- Thank you.- Change places.

0:22:10 > 0:22:14Right, you stand on that side and laugh at him!

0:22:14 > 0:22:16OK, so holding on to here?

0:22:16 > 0:22:18That's it. Get locked in,

0:22:18 > 0:22:21pull through and then keep pressing it down.

0:22:21 > 0:22:23What kind of clay is this?

0:22:23 > 0:22:25That is buff clay -

0:22:25 > 0:22:2815% of kiln-dried sand added to it.

0:22:29 > 0:22:34Buff clay refers to the finished colour, which is a light cream.

0:22:34 > 0:22:35Keep pressing down.

0:22:39 > 0:22:42You start to get a feel for it after a while, don't you?

0:22:42 > 0:22:44After around 15 minutes of sculpting,

0:22:44 > 0:22:47the chimney top is a neat octagonal shape.

0:22:47 > 0:22:50Marek takes the reins again for the final stage.

0:22:52 > 0:22:54See the master at work.

0:22:56 > 0:22:59We love seeing true craftsmen.

0:22:59 > 0:23:01Right, there we go. I think you've got the gist of it.

0:23:01 > 0:23:03- Absolutely.- There are two put

0:23:03 > 0:23:08- together and that is what they should look like.- Wow, fantastic.

0:23:08 > 0:23:10That is brilliant. Thank you so much for your time,

0:23:10 > 0:23:14- that has been tremendous. - My pleasure.- Thank you.

0:23:14 > 0:23:17Full of inspiration, Maggie and Martin are even more

0:23:17 > 0:23:19determined to find a new place to call home,

0:23:19 > 0:23:21where they can revel in their passions.

0:23:25 > 0:23:28Our Devonshire property search is on its way to the village of

0:23:28 > 0:23:31Morchard Bishop in the heartland of mid-Devon.

0:23:31 > 0:23:33The village is overlooked by pastures green

0:23:33 > 0:23:36and dominated by the tower of the 16th-century church

0:23:36 > 0:23:39of St Mary's which, at 95 feet tall,

0:23:39 > 0:23:43stands almost 600 feet above sea level.

0:23:43 > 0:23:46There is a great sense of community here and a good selection of places

0:23:46 > 0:23:50to get to know the locals, including a popular dining pub.

0:23:50 > 0:23:52The car park here welcomes the Post Office van,

0:23:52 > 0:23:56which visits weekly after the village Post Office closed.

0:23:56 > 0:23:58Close to the centre of the village,

0:23:58 > 0:24:01we find this rather interesting property.

0:24:01 > 0:24:03Thought to date back to the 18th century,

0:24:03 > 0:24:05it sits neatly amongst its neighbours.

0:24:07 > 0:24:12Right, let's see what you make of this little offering.

0:24:12 > 0:24:14- Oh, wow!- Oh, this is interesting, isn't it?

0:24:14 > 0:24:16- Yes.- Fascinating.

0:24:16 > 0:24:19This property used to be a piggery.

0:24:19 > 0:24:21Now the reason this is yellow is

0:24:21 > 0:24:23because it is actually part of this property.

0:24:23 > 0:24:25This used to be the outside toilet

0:24:25 > 0:24:28for that house and that one had one next door.

0:24:28 > 0:24:32So you own the courtyard but they do have access and right of way.

0:24:32 > 0:24:34OK.

0:24:34 > 0:24:38Sum up this property for me, will you, before we step inside?

0:24:38 > 0:24:41- Different.- OK.

0:24:41 > 0:24:45I was going to use the word quaint, but I properly shouldn't.

0:24:45 > 0:24:47You can. We like that, quaint and different.

0:24:47 > 0:24:50Right, let's see what you make of the inside.

0:24:54 > 0:24:58This unconventional attached cottage is set out in an L-shape.

0:24:58 > 0:25:01It has been tastefully renovated and the front door,

0:25:01 > 0:25:02set beyond the courtyard,

0:25:02 > 0:25:05leads us into the house where we find a snug dining room.

0:25:07 > 0:25:10We're heading into the right-hand wing of the property.

0:25:10 > 0:25:14This is really what I wanted to start off with, the kitchen.

0:25:14 > 0:25:15It's lovely. I really like it.

0:25:15 > 0:25:18It's not huge but it's got everything.

0:25:18 > 0:25:20It's really nicely done.

0:25:20 > 0:25:22- Beautifully finished, I have to say. - When we were outside,

0:25:22 > 0:25:26- you wouldn't think there was this much space, would you?- No.

0:25:26 > 0:25:27No, it's very deceptive.

0:25:29 > 0:25:31- To your taste?- Yes. - Very much so.- Lovely.

0:25:31 > 0:25:34Simple, elegant, but functional.

0:25:34 > 0:25:37I thought he was talking about you for a minute there!

0:25:37 > 0:25:39THEY LAUGH

0:25:39 > 0:25:41- No!- Right, I'm going to keep going.

0:25:45 > 0:25:46Heading out of the kitchen,

0:25:46 > 0:25:49we're crossing through the dining room to a large sitting room with

0:25:49 > 0:25:52windows to the back garden.

0:25:52 > 0:25:54This is nice.

0:25:54 > 0:25:57It is. This definitely counts as cosy, I would say.

0:25:57 > 0:26:01Yeah. I can see you two sitting in this sitting room.

0:26:01 > 0:26:04I think it's big enough to be properly usable

0:26:04 > 0:26:07but still small enough to be cosy, even with the beams,

0:26:07 > 0:26:10which bring the ceiling height down a little bit.

0:26:10 > 0:26:13It doesn't feel oppressive or claustrophobic.

0:26:13 > 0:26:14I do like it.

0:26:14 > 0:26:17It is lovely. It's a really nice house.

0:26:17 > 0:26:19Well, I've shown you the downstairs.

0:26:19 > 0:26:23- I'm going to take us upstairs and see what you make of the bedrooms. - OK.

0:26:24 > 0:26:27Above the dining and sitting rooms are three bedrooms,

0:26:27 > 0:26:30all served by a smart family bathroom.

0:26:30 > 0:26:33There's a double with a sloped ceiling and a skylight,

0:26:33 > 0:26:36another with a feature window to the front,

0:26:36 > 0:26:39and the master benefits from garden views.

0:26:40 > 0:26:42It's beautiful. It really is lovely.

0:26:44 > 0:26:45So far, so good, I think.

0:26:45 > 0:26:47Yeah. You happy?

0:26:47 > 0:26:50I would be definitely very happy living in this sort of space,

0:26:50 > 0:26:53so long as we have got some of the other things that we need.

0:26:53 > 0:26:55Yes. So far, so good.

0:26:55 > 0:26:57Let's see what we make of the

0:26:57 > 0:27:01outside space and opportunities there.

0:27:01 > 0:27:02Right, OK.

0:27:04 > 0:27:07Outside, an arc of steps leads up from the house

0:27:07 > 0:27:11to landscaped gardens, which include a large patio and a small pond,

0:27:11 > 0:27:13a summer house and shed,

0:27:13 > 0:27:17plus excellent views across neighbouring countryside.

0:27:19 > 0:27:21I think quite a large garden,

0:27:21 > 0:27:24considering from the front of the house it doesn't look like you have

0:27:24 > 0:27:26- anything, does it? - Exactly, that's right.

0:27:26 > 0:27:28It's quite deceiving.

0:27:28 > 0:27:30I can see your eyes searching.

0:27:30 > 0:27:32They will have to search, I'm afraid,

0:27:32 > 0:27:37because I don't have a workshop to show you, but this land is flat.

0:27:37 > 0:27:40You could potentially build your own one here.

0:27:40 > 0:27:44Yes. I think that's a possibility, certainly.

0:27:44 > 0:27:47We've always felt that if there was the land available and it didn't

0:27:47 > 0:27:51compromise the garden, that would be the right thing to do.

0:27:51 > 0:27:56So, I'm now wondering if we can put a price on this former piggery with

0:27:56 > 0:27:58its wonderful view and garden.

0:27:58 > 0:28:03My feeling is we're probably about the top of the budget,

0:28:03 > 0:28:06plus obviously we need to build the studio,

0:28:06 > 0:28:08so I would guess probably about 350.

0:28:08 > 0:28:15- OK.- I'm going to be cheeky and hope it's a bit less, and say 340.

0:28:15 > 0:28:17- Are you really hoping?- I'm hoping.

0:28:17 > 0:28:21I like it when you're cheeky because you could actually be a little bit

0:28:21 > 0:28:24cheekier. The asking price is offers in excess of

0:28:24 > 0:28:28£250,000.

0:28:28 > 0:28:31How luxurious would you like your workshop to be

0:28:31 > 0:28:32with that spare money?

0:28:32 > 0:28:35- Wow!- That is stunning.

0:28:35 > 0:28:37That is amazing, yes.

0:28:37 > 0:28:40Yes, I think that is quite a surprise.

0:28:40 > 0:28:42Do you fancy now being cheeky and

0:28:42 > 0:28:44having another look around on your own?

0:28:44 > 0:28:45Oh, yes, definitely.

0:28:45 > 0:28:47I love that smile!

0:28:47 > 0:28:49I love that smile.

0:28:49 > 0:28:52Be my guest. Go and take another look around the property and then

0:28:52 > 0:28:55come back out, and really study this area.

0:28:55 > 0:28:57I'm sure you will be drawing up plans in no time.

0:28:57 > 0:28:59I'm going to keep everything crossed.

0:28:59 > 0:29:01- Off you go.- Thank you. Off you go.

0:29:04 > 0:29:10This 18th-century cottage has rung in at £130,000 below budget.

0:29:10 > 0:29:12It's beautifully renovated,

0:29:12 > 0:29:15is full of character and has three bedrooms.

0:29:15 > 0:29:18There is a large garden with views, plus the option to build a great

0:29:18 > 0:29:21workshop, and it lies close to the village centre.

0:29:23 > 0:29:25This is a lovely little room.

0:29:26 > 0:29:27This is nice, actually.

0:29:27 > 0:29:30- I have to say, I like the little skylight over the bed.- Yes.

0:29:30 > 0:29:32Lie in bed and watch the stars.

0:29:33 > 0:29:35Yes, I could see this working

0:29:35 > 0:29:37as a very, very nice spare room, actually.

0:29:37 > 0:29:40Yes. It is, it's lovely.

0:29:40 > 0:29:42This house is absolutely beautiful.

0:29:42 > 0:29:45It has been restored really sympathetically

0:29:45 > 0:29:47and with a sense of style.

0:29:47 > 0:29:49It is stunning. A really fabulous place.

0:29:51 > 0:29:53It's quite a stunning property, I have to say.

0:29:53 > 0:29:55A real surprise.

0:29:55 > 0:29:59You can't tell from the outside what you're going to find and it has just

0:29:59 > 0:30:01been so beautifully done.

0:30:01 > 0:30:06I think I was almost speechless, which for me is very, very unusual.

0:30:06 > 0:30:10I think the price of this house is absolutely astonishing.

0:30:10 > 0:30:14It's got so much and so much has been done to it.

0:30:14 > 0:30:15I love it.

0:30:19 > 0:30:20Have you seen enough?

0:30:20 > 0:30:22Yes. A lovely, lovely house.

0:30:22 > 0:30:25- It really is beautiful.- You said it was different and it was quaint.

0:30:25 > 0:30:28It seems to have delivered on all of those, doesn't it?

0:30:28 > 0:30:29- Yes.- It's quite a surprise.

0:30:29 > 0:30:32Good. We like to do that to you. Let's hit the road.

0:30:42 > 0:30:45It's a new day in Devon and we are about to embark

0:30:45 > 0:30:47on the next leg of our journey,

0:30:47 > 0:30:51searching out a country paradise for Maggie and Martin from Stockport,

0:30:51 > 0:30:55where they can live the good life and let their creative juices flow.

0:30:55 > 0:30:58Armed with a top budget of £380,000,

0:30:58 > 0:31:01we are tasked with finding a characterful home

0:31:01 > 0:31:02that has a garden fit for

0:31:02 > 0:31:05the green-fingered as well as an artist's workshop.

0:31:05 > 0:31:09There is still our marvellous Mystery House to come.

0:31:09 > 0:31:12I'm pretty much bowled over by this, I have to say.

0:31:12 > 0:31:16- Are you?- Yes.- And I will be finding out how one pocket of Devon is

0:31:16 > 0:31:20safeguarding military memorabilia that tells the tales of the brave

0:31:20 > 0:31:24and victorious British Army during the Second World War.

0:31:24 > 0:31:27It is an extraordinary experience, just to stand here.

0:31:32 > 0:31:36Well, yesterday went rather well with Martin and Maggie,

0:31:36 > 0:31:40although there is nothing like being homeless in two weeks' time to help

0:31:40 > 0:31:41focus the mind!

0:31:41 > 0:31:45Today, we are going to show our crafty couple two properties,

0:31:45 > 0:31:49one of which being the - what could it possibly be? - Mystery House.

0:31:49 > 0:31:51Well, let me give you a clue.

0:31:51 > 0:31:55It's rather gorgeous, in a rural location,

0:31:55 > 0:31:57but will it give them everything they're after?

0:31:57 > 0:32:00Well, we'll have to wait and see because first I'm going to show them

0:32:00 > 0:32:02a property that could be the answer

0:32:02 > 0:32:05to their creative and artistic dreams.

0:32:07 > 0:32:11Our house-hunt is taking us to the mid-Devon hamlet of Oldborough.

0:32:12 > 0:32:16Less than a ten-minute drive away is the village of Copplestone.

0:32:16 > 0:32:18Sitting in a valley and cutting through the village

0:32:18 > 0:32:20is the Tarka Line railway,

0:32:20 > 0:32:24which runs from Exeter to Barnstaple and is named after

0:32:24 > 0:32:26the 1927 novel Tarka The Otter.

0:32:26 > 0:32:30In the scenic hamlet of Oldborough is this Grade II-listed cottage.

0:32:31 > 0:32:35Right, may I present you your property?

0:32:37 > 0:32:39- Wonderful.- Thatch.

0:32:39 > 0:32:41- Yes.- But it's new thatch.

0:32:41 > 0:32:44It's only finished last year.

0:32:44 > 0:32:47So you've got... You keep an eye on it and make sure the ridge

0:32:47 > 0:32:50is always intact, you've got about 25 years there.

0:32:50 > 0:32:52It will probably see me out!

0:32:52 > 0:32:54LAUGHTER

0:32:55 > 0:32:59Before I take you inside, what is going through your minds?

0:32:59 > 0:33:04- It's beautiful.- It's a very, very pretty-looking place, I have to say.

0:33:04 > 0:33:09- It is lovely.- Right, shall we? - Let's go.- Super.

0:33:09 > 0:33:11This enchanting semidetached

0:33:11 > 0:33:14cottage is built from cobblestone and is thought to

0:33:14 > 0:33:16have its origins in the 16th century.

0:33:19 > 0:33:25So, through the stable door, which leads us into our sitting-room.

0:33:25 > 0:33:27Lovely. Beautiful oak floor.

0:33:27 > 0:33:29This is all new.

0:33:29 > 0:33:32The house has had a massive overhaul over the last few years.

0:33:32 > 0:33:35You can see a lot of work has been done on it.

0:33:35 > 0:33:36The beams are rather nice.

0:33:36 > 0:33:39Perhaps a little low, but we're only short.

0:33:41 > 0:33:43What about that as a fireplace?

0:33:43 > 0:33:45I think we could all walk through that fireplace, couldn't we?

0:33:45 > 0:33:48- It's so high.- It's lovely. - It's beautiful.

0:33:48 > 0:33:49This is a period piece,

0:33:49 > 0:33:52you do feel like you're stepping back in history.

0:33:52 > 0:33:56Does that feel like the right thing to do for you two?

0:33:56 > 0:33:58I think, potentially, yes.

0:33:58 > 0:34:00Super. Well, we'll keep going through.

0:34:00 > 0:34:01Next-door is the kitchen...

0:34:06 > 0:34:10..which is kept toasty-warm by the range.

0:34:10 > 0:34:13Lovely. Oh, yes, oh, yes.

0:34:13 > 0:34:15This is a nice area, though.

0:34:15 > 0:34:19You have the kitchen and the dining area, so it is sociable.

0:34:19 > 0:34:25And actually quite bright, as well, with the French doors.

0:34:25 > 0:34:27It works well.

0:34:27 > 0:34:31Overall, this kitchen is giving us a very good impression.

0:34:31 > 0:34:33I'm going to head upstairs now with the two of you.

0:34:33 > 0:34:35- OK, lovely.- See what you think there.

0:34:38 > 0:34:42The first floor has just as much charm as downstairs and offers

0:34:42 > 0:34:45a compact bathroom with three bedrooms.

0:34:45 > 0:34:48A narrow room at the back is in use as a study and then, at the front,

0:34:48 > 0:34:50there is a beamed double...

0:34:52 > 0:34:55..and next door is the master.

0:34:55 > 0:34:58I think it would be fair to say this thatched house isn't huge but you

0:34:58 > 0:35:00- still get your three bedrooms.- Yeah.

0:35:00 > 0:35:02This is the master.

0:35:02 > 0:35:07It's beautiful. It really is well thought out and stylish

0:35:07 > 0:35:09within the tradition.

0:35:09 > 0:35:11Some issues...

0:35:11 > 0:35:13The walls are fantastic but there's nowhere

0:35:13 > 0:35:16we'd be able to hang a picture on a wall that shape.

0:35:17 > 0:35:19That is very true.

0:35:19 > 0:35:21It's such a wonderful curve.

0:35:22 > 0:35:24It's certainly interesting.

0:35:24 > 0:35:27We'll probably be in a better position to come to a view

0:35:27 > 0:35:29- when we have seen a bit more. - That's a good point.

0:35:29 > 0:35:32Let's head outside and see what else there is on offer.

0:35:32 > 0:35:34- I'll lead on, shall I? - Yes, please, thank you.

0:35:34 > 0:35:36The outdoor space here provides

0:35:36 > 0:35:39everything Maggie and Martin have asked for.

0:35:39 > 0:35:42There are beautifully landscaped gardens featuring endless

0:35:42 > 0:35:45countryside views and it's ideally equipped for living the good life

0:35:45 > 0:35:48and indulging in creative hobbies.

0:35:48 > 0:35:50Wow!

0:35:50 > 0:35:52That's what I wanted to hear.

0:35:52 > 0:35:53A little bit of wow, yeah.

0:35:53 > 0:35:56- That is definitely a view. - That is wonderful.

0:35:57 > 0:36:01Now, the garden itself is about a third of an acre.

0:36:01 > 0:36:04And you've got areas - if you look all around, you can see seating

0:36:04 > 0:36:08- areas, which they obviously love the afternoon sun.- Indeed.

0:36:08 > 0:36:12The vegetable patch behind you, plenty of space.

0:36:12 > 0:36:14You've got a pond and you have even got your own well.

0:36:14 > 0:36:19I'm really getting to the main part, which is the workshop.

0:36:19 > 0:36:22- Yes.- You might have noticed when we walked into the house and then came

0:36:22 > 0:36:24round, it was to the side.

0:36:24 > 0:36:26At the moment, it's a huge double garage

0:36:26 > 0:36:29but the owners don't use it to store their car.

0:36:29 > 0:36:31They use it for their hobbies.

0:36:31 > 0:36:36It has water and it has electricity, and it is pretty large.

0:36:36 > 0:36:37- OK.- So, let's see how much this

0:36:37 > 0:36:42thatched house is, with a beautiful garden, views to die for.

0:36:42 > 0:36:44Let's see what the current asking price is, shall we?

0:36:44 > 0:36:46Who wants to go first?

0:36:46 > 0:36:47It's my turn.

0:36:47 > 0:36:49We've been so wildly out and I'm

0:36:49 > 0:36:54expecting to be still wildly out, but I'm going to say 300,000.

0:36:54 > 0:36:56OK. Martin?

0:36:56 > 0:37:00I suspect that we're probably around 345.

0:37:00 > 0:37:03Oh, you're very close.

0:37:04 > 0:37:08The asking price is £350,000.

0:37:08 > 0:37:12- OK.- And you are paying for being on the edge of a village...

0:37:12 > 0:37:14- Yes.- ..with those views.

0:37:14 > 0:37:17- OK.- I think you should have another look, on your own.

0:37:17 > 0:37:20- Yes.- I don't know how long I'm going to give you in that workshop.

0:37:20 > 0:37:23I might have to put a timer on because you might be in your element

0:37:23 > 0:37:24as you're looking around there!

0:37:24 > 0:37:27- Yes.- And, well, I'll meet you by the front door.

0:37:27 > 0:37:31- Lovely.- Thank you.- Thank you very much.- See you in a minute.- Let's go.

0:37:33 > 0:37:36This Grade II-listed thatched cottage is not only

0:37:36 > 0:37:38£30,000 under budget,

0:37:38 > 0:37:42but it also comes complete with wonderful original features along

0:37:42 > 0:37:43with its three bedrooms.

0:37:43 > 0:37:48It's got character and style, a fabulous garden with raised beds,

0:37:48 > 0:37:51country views, and that all-important workshop.

0:37:56 > 0:37:59Oh, this is quite a reasonable size, isn't it?

0:37:59 > 0:38:01It is, and it's quite light.

0:38:01 > 0:38:03- This has potential.- It really does.

0:38:05 > 0:38:07It's a lovely house, it really is.

0:38:07 > 0:38:12It's got so much character and the thatch is just beautiful.

0:38:12 > 0:38:15I think the house is really nice.

0:38:15 > 0:38:17I think it's fairly compact.

0:38:17 > 0:38:21I think we would still struggle to get a lot of our stuff in here.

0:38:21 > 0:38:23I'm very taken with the garden.

0:38:23 > 0:38:26I think the garden is fabulous and the location is brilliant.

0:38:26 > 0:38:31The workshop - I think there's definitely the embryo of something.

0:38:31 > 0:38:32It's the right sort of size.

0:38:32 > 0:38:36Needs a little bit of work, but we could really use that.

0:38:36 > 0:38:39So I'm very, very positive about this

0:38:39 > 0:38:44and I think there's probably enough left in the budget to give us a

0:38:44 > 0:38:45chance to do what we need to do.

0:38:48 > 0:38:51- OK, you two?- Yes.- Indeed. - Finished here?

0:38:51 > 0:38:53- I think so.- Thank you for getting the door, Martin.

0:38:53 > 0:38:56- I think we're going to hit the road. - OK. Let's go.

0:39:04 > 0:39:06Not far from Barnstaple,

0:39:06 > 0:39:07the small village of Cobbaton is

0:39:07 > 0:39:10home to the Cobbaton Combat Collection,

0:39:10 > 0:39:12a display of military memorabilia

0:39:12 > 0:39:14from British and Commonwealth countries

0:39:14 > 0:39:16that dates to the period between

0:39:16 > 0:39:201939 and 1945, when World War II raged.

0:39:22 > 0:39:23I've come to meet Preston Isaac,

0:39:23 > 0:39:27who founded the museum on the family farm in 1981.

0:39:29 > 0:39:32- Preston. Good to meet you, sir. - Welcome to Cobbaton.

0:39:32 > 0:39:33A beautiful, sunny morning.

0:39:33 > 0:39:35It's always like this in Devon, isn't it?

0:39:35 > 0:39:37- Every day. Every day. - Blue skies, sunshine.

0:39:37 > 0:39:39- Yes, always.- But as you come in here,

0:39:39 > 0:39:41I've already spied one of those tanks.

0:39:41 > 0:39:45So impressed with that. I mean, how did it actually start?

0:39:45 > 0:39:46Little boy collecting things.

0:39:46 > 0:39:49A little boy collecting things and it has got out of hand, hasn't it?

0:39:49 > 0:39:51- Literally, yeah. - What about the military angle?

0:39:51 > 0:39:53- When did that come in? - That started...

0:39:53 > 0:39:57Dad was in the Home Guard, and you used to hear bits and pieces.

0:39:57 > 0:40:00It's just a natural progression.

0:40:00 > 0:40:04Preston's father passed on militaria from his war days to help start his

0:40:04 > 0:40:06collection and, with the thousands

0:40:06 > 0:40:11of items ranging from a military button to a 50-tonne tank,

0:40:11 > 0:40:12every piece tells a tale.

0:40:14 > 0:40:17If you had a particular favourite - to put you on the spot -

0:40:17 > 0:40:19what would it be out of the whole collection?

0:40:19 > 0:40:22It's the Churchill tank, which is quite symbolic.

0:40:22 > 0:40:24And how long, with a vehicle like that,

0:40:24 > 0:40:29if it's constantly looked after and restored, how long will it last for?

0:40:29 > 0:40:32The main hull will last forever.

0:40:32 > 0:40:35You are talking about armour six inches thick.

0:40:35 > 0:40:39Preston's collection has stood the test of time and now it's his son,

0:40:39 > 0:40:41Tim, who is at the helm.

0:40:41 > 0:40:45The father-and-son team welcome over 10,000 visitors a year

0:40:45 > 0:40:48who share their passion for these military memories.

0:40:48 > 0:40:50I knew the collection was going to be vast,

0:40:50 > 0:40:51but I didn't quite appreciate

0:40:51 > 0:40:55- it was going to be so many artillery pieces here.- Well, yes.

0:40:55 > 0:40:57It's been 40, maybe 50 years, of collecting.

0:40:57 > 0:41:00I want you to show me some that you're particularly fond of

0:41:00 > 0:41:02- but where do we start? - We start with something small.

0:41:02 > 0:41:06This was made by a German prisoner of war

0:41:06 > 0:41:09who was working on a farm here in Cobbaton

0:41:09 > 0:41:11and given to my father when he was a little child.

0:41:11 > 0:41:14- Really?- As you swing it around a little piece of string

0:41:14 > 0:41:16will operate the pecking birds.

0:41:16 > 0:41:19- And that was from a prisoner of war? - Yeah.- My goodness.

0:41:19 > 0:41:22Was it something like this, do you think, which ignited that flame

0:41:22 > 0:41:24- for your father?- It must have done. Yes, it must have done.

0:41:24 > 0:41:27A little boy not really understanding what was happening around him with the war

0:41:27 > 0:41:30but that would have started his collecting, I suspect.

0:41:30 > 0:41:32We are surrounded by tanks here.

0:41:32 > 0:41:34When I spoke to Preston, your father,

0:41:34 > 0:41:37he mentioned his particular favourite was the Churchill tank.

0:41:37 > 0:41:40- The Churchill, yes. - I mean, I don't think...

0:41:40 > 0:41:41Am I allowed to touch it?

0:41:41 > 0:41:44- Yeah.- I don't think I've ever been close to a tank before.

0:41:44 > 0:41:47You know, you get the impression that they are going to be huge,

0:41:47 > 0:41:49but this is quite enormous.

0:41:49 > 0:41:52It's also pretty intimidating to be standing next to it.

0:41:52 > 0:41:57- It is.- Named after then Prime Minister Winston Churchill's family,

0:41:57 > 0:42:01Preston bought this tank in the 1970s for a few hundred pounds.

0:42:01 > 0:42:04It weighs in at 44 tonnes.

0:42:04 > 0:42:07There were several hundred of them all dumped in this scrapyard,

0:42:07 > 0:42:10just waiting for the price of steel to go up after the war.

0:42:11 > 0:42:14Preston may only have paid the scrap price for the tank,

0:42:14 > 0:42:18but, just recently, Tim was offered over £100,000 for it by a private

0:42:18 > 0:42:20collector. He said no.

0:42:22 > 0:42:25Do we have any idea when it was actually built?

0:42:25 > 0:42:28It was built in October 1944,

0:42:28 > 0:42:31so it was built for the final thrust of World War II,

0:42:31 > 0:42:33from D-Day further on.

0:42:33 > 0:42:35So it would have seen some serious action?

0:42:35 > 0:42:38- I would think so.- And how many crew

0:42:38 > 0:42:40would have operated a tank like this?

0:42:40 > 0:42:44There's a five-man crew - the driver, the hull gunner in the front,

0:42:44 > 0:42:48and then the commander, the loader gunner, and the radio operator.

0:42:48 > 0:42:52So would the crew have spent hours upon hours in this tank,

0:42:52 > 0:42:53working together as a close unit?

0:42:53 > 0:42:58They did. We've in fact met a radio operator who worked in a Churchill

0:42:58 > 0:43:00tank from D-Day onwards

0:43:00 > 0:43:04and he became very close to the other four men in the tank.

0:43:04 > 0:43:06They were a family.

0:43:06 > 0:43:09It's pretty awe-inspiring standing amongst these vehicles of war,

0:43:09 > 0:43:11but I'm lucky enough to be getting

0:43:11 > 0:43:13the opportunity to hop on board

0:43:13 > 0:43:18this self-propelled gun to get first-hand experience from up top.

0:43:18 > 0:43:19So this isn't a tank?

0:43:19 > 0:43:21It is an artillery gun,

0:43:21 > 0:43:24which has been mounted onto a tank chassis

0:43:24 > 0:43:26simply to propel itself around the battlefield.

0:43:26 > 0:43:29It is brutally basic, standing here.

0:43:29 > 0:43:31You get a feeling of being quite exposed.

0:43:31 > 0:43:33There's no ceiling to it. Why would that have been?

0:43:33 > 0:43:36Simply because we are slightly behind the front line,

0:43:36 > 0:43:39firing a barrage of fire over the infantry onto the target.

0:43:39 > 0:43:43- My goodness.- So we've got armoured sides and maybe a canvas roof if it

0:43:43 > 0:43:46- were raining.- Well, I'd love to see it move, that's for sure.

0:43:46 > 0:43:47- Thank you, Tim.- OK.

0:43:50 > 0:43:53You really do get a sense of what it must be like.

0:43:53 > 0:43:56We're standing here, and it's an impressive piece of kit,

0:43:56 > 0:43:59but to think this would have been operated

0:43:59 > 0:44:02with shells coming overhead, men dying on either side.

0:44:02 > 0:44:06It is an extraordinary experience just to stand here.

0:44:13 > 0:44:16Built in Canada from steel, with an aircraft engine,

0:44:16 > 0:44:182,000 of these vehicles were used by

0:44:18 > 0:44:21the British Army during World War II.

0:44:21 > 0:44:25And this mighty mover weighs in at around 30 tonnes,

0:44:25 > 0:44:27with top speeds of around 25mph.

0:44:29 > 0:44:32The vehicles in the collection are often taken to military shows

0:44:32 > 0:44:34and also feature in films.

0:44:34 > 0:44:37One even starred alongside Hollywood icon Brad Pitt,

0:44:37 > 0:44:40so I'm pleased to say I'm in good company!

0:44:41 > 0:44:45But, for now, it's time to get back to my house-hunting companions

0:44:45 > 0:44:47and continue with their property search.

0:44:53 > 0:44:55So we are on our way to the mystery house.

0:44:55 > 0:44:57Maggie, what do you think we're going to see?

0:44:57 > 0:45:01I have no idea. We've seen so many different and unusual properties

0:45:01 > 0:45:05already. For the mystery it's going to be something quite different.

0:45:05 > 0:45:07It could be perhaps an old farrier's

0:45:07 > 0:45:10or an old leather worker's cottage with workshop.

0:45:10 > 0:45:12I have no idea.

0:45:12 > 0:45:14What about you, Martin?

0:45:14 > 0:45:15Any ideas?

0:45:15 > 0:45:19My only thought really is that we've seen, up to now,

0:45:19 > 0:45:22traditional cottage-style properties

0:45:22 > 0:45:25and I'm wondering whether the mystery house

0:45:25 > 0:45:28might be something a little more modern, perhaps.

0:45:28 > 0:45:31Feeling confident as we make our way to the mystery?

0:45:31 > 0:45:34Feeling anticipatory.

0:45:34 > 0:45:35THEY LAUGH

0:45:35 > 0:45:38Well, we've certainly gone through plenty of beautiful, little

0:45:38 > 0:45:39- villages, haven't we?- We have.

0:45:39 > 0:45:43It's just such a beautiful county and such lovely buildings.

0:45:43 > 0:45:45It is just a wonderful place to be.

0:45:45 > 0:45:48I'm sure this is the place we want to live.

0:45:50 > 0:45:52The North Devon hamlet of Churchill

0:45:52 > 0:45:55is the final property stop on our house hunt.

0:45:55 > 0:45:56It's our most remote location,

0:45:56 > 0:46:00but just a few minutes' drive away is the village of East Down,

0:46:00 > 0:46:03which provides a village hall to unite the local community

0:46:03 > 0:46:05and a great gastropub.

0:46:06 > 0:46:08Churchill sits in rural isolation,

0:46:08 > 0:46:12with far-reaching views across agricultural land,

0:46:12 > 0:46:14home to an abundance of wildlife

0:46:14 > 0:46:18and the National Trust's Regency house, Arlington Court,

0:46:18 > 0:46:22built in 1823, stands proudly in the distance.

0:46:22 > 0:46:24Our mystery house may be remote,

0:46:24 > 0:46:26but what it lacks in neighbours and community,

0:46:26 > 0:46:29it makes up for in many other ways.

0:46:29 > 0:46:34So, for our final time, in a way, here's your property -

0:46:34 > 0:46:36our mystery house.

0:46:36 > 0:46:38- Yes.- Yes.

0:46:38 > 0:46:41- Indeed!- Two yeses! It's about 200 years old.

0:46:41 > 0:46:43It looks a reasonable size, actually.

0:46:43 > 0:46:45- Yes.- I think...certainly an interesting location.

0:46:45 > 0:46:48Well, I think you've hit the nail on the head there, haven't you?

0:46:48 > 0:46:50Because, for our mystery house,

0:46:50 > 0:46:52we have brought you much further afield.

0:46:52 > 0:46:55- We've gone more north... - Yes.- ..but much more rural.

0:46:55 > 0:46:57Surrounded 360 by views.

0:46:57 > 0:47:00There's a lot about this sort of location that appeals to me,

0:47:00 > 0:47:02and the house, yeah, looks solid.

0:47:02 > 0:47:05Great. Right, well, I think we should start, don't you?

0:47:05 > 0:47:07Yes, please.

0:47:08 > 0:47:11This delightful property was extended in 1998,

0:47:11 > 0:47:14which doubled its size to create the sunny,

0:47:14 > 0:47:16airy home we're about to discover.

0:47:16 > 0:47:18Please come in.

0:47:18 > 0:47:22Let's see what you make of our mystery house inside.

0:47:22 > 0:47:24First impressions...

0:47:24 > 0:47:26it's a lovely size.

0:47:26 > 0:47:29- Yes.- Beautiful-size room.

0:47:29 > 0:47:32I find the internal windows intriguing.

0:47:32 > 0:47:37This must have been two rooms and the outside wall.

0:47:37 > 0:47:39- Yes.- You'd be right. That's the exterior wall.

0:47:39 > 0:47:42This probably was two rooms.

0:47:42 > 0:47:44They've kept that as a feature when they've extended the house.

0:47:44 > 0:47:49- Lovely.- So, really bright, roomy, spacious.

0:47:49 > 0:47:52Just off to our left, up those stairs, is a study,

0:47:52 > 0:47:55a really good-sized study, with a dual aspect,

0:47:55 > 0:47:57so you get plenty of light in there, and views.

0:47:57 > 0:47:59This works. This does work for us.

0:47:59 > 0:48:02Absolutely. I'm pretty much bowled over by this...

0:48:02 > 0:48:04- I have to say.- Are you?

0:48:04 > 0:48:08Yes. It's got that sort of openness that you don't always get in the

0:48:08 > 0:48:10cottages and...yes.

0:48:10 > 0:48:13- Love it.- Yeah? - Absolutely love it.- Oh!

0:48:13 > 0:48:15Music to my ears. Let's keep going.

0:48:17 > 0:48:20At the back of the house, and divided by an open stairway,

0:48:20 > 0:48:21is the kitchen-diner.

0:48:23 > 0:48:25- Oh, yes.- I like the kitchen.

0:48:25 > 0:48:27It's good. This is a great space.

0:48:27 > 0:48:32- Yes.- The kitchen's lovely, but also having the diner there, where...

0:48:32 > 0:48:35OK, the staircase in between but it's sociable.

0:48:35 > 0:48:40- Yes.- You know, if you've got friends round or even one of us cooking,

0:48:40 > 0:48:42and that is just a good sociable space.

0:48:42 > 0:48:46- Yeah.- Yes. - It does work very, very well.

0:48:46 > 0:48:49- Yes.- So, we're liking the kitchen, we're liking the dining area,

0:48:49 > 0:48:51we're liking everything we're seeing.

0:48:51 > 0:48:53In addition to this, if you just

0:48:53 > 0:48:55look past, you can see there's a doorway -

0:48:55 > 0:48:59that leads outside - but also you've got your utility room there.

0:48:59 > 0:49:01And I want you to remember that room

0:49:01 > 0:49:03because it could prove quite important later on.

0:49:03 > 0:49:06- Right.- OK. - That's a big hint, wasn't it?

0:49:06 > 0:49:08I was going to say, that's subtle, yes.

0:49:08 > 0:49:10- Yes.- But you've seen enough downstairs?

0:49:10 > 0:49:14- Yes.- Yes.- Let's go and have a look up.- Lovely.

0:49:14 > 0:49:17Above us, there's a surprise waiting for Maggie and Martin.

0:49:17 > 0:49:21Along with a tiled family bathroom are four bedrooms,

0:49:21 > 0:49:24meaning there are already options for a creative workplace.

0:49:24 > 0:49:27At the back of the house there is a dual-aspect double

0:49:27 > 0:49:30and at the front are two equally bright bedrooms.

0:49:32 > 0:49:35Then there is the master, which is concealing another surprise.

0:49:37 > 0:49:41Now, the downstairs is pretty spacious and you'll

0:49:41 > 0:49:44be pleased to know the upstairs is equally as spacious.

0:49:44 > 0:49:46- Wow.- Yes.

0:49:46 > 0:49:49- This is lovely. - Yeah, this is your master.

0:49:50 > 0:49:52It has an en suite.

0:49:52 > 0:49:54I know you didn't ask for an en suite,

0:49:54 > 0:49:55but do you like the idea of having one?

0:49:55 > 0:49:58Yes, particularly when you've got guests.

0:49:58 > 0:50:00It does make life a little easier.

0:50:00 > 0:50:02I think it's always a bonus.

0:50:02 > 0:50:07It's not something we would necessarily expect, but, you know,

0:50:07 > 0:50:08any bonus is good.

0:50:08 > 0:50:14Good. So, overall, how would you rate this property inside?

0:50:15 > 0:50:19It's very, very good. Really, I think it's got

0:50:19 > 0:50:22pretty much what we've been asking for,

0:50:22 > 0:50:24so long as we can sort out workshop and...

0:50:24 > 0:50:28So, definitely fingers crossed, this would be a goer for us, I think.

0:50:28 > 0:50:31- Yeah.- Now, we're going to head back downstairs,

0:50:31 > 0:50:33but you two are creative.

0:50:33 > 0:50:36I want your imagination to work with the next thing

0:50:36 > 0:50:38- I'm going to show you.- OK.

0:50:41 > 0:50:44The outside space sits to the front with a lawn and a terrace -

0:50:44 > 0:50:46perfect for enjoying the warmer months.

0:50:46 > 0:50:50The house also enjoys spectacular views across Exmoor National Park.

0:50:52 > 0:50:56Now, let's talk in a little bit more detail about the garden,

0:50:56 > 0:51:00the property and also the potential for a workshop.

0:51:00 > 0:51:02I think I've given it away there, haven't I?

0:51:02 > 0:51:05- Yes.- The potential for a workshop.

0:51:05 > 0:51:06The way it's set up at the moment,

0:51:06 > 0:51:09you do have a small barn at the side.

0:51:09 > 0:51:13I'm guessing that might not be quite big enough for what you're after.

0:51:13 > 0:51:16However, you've got a shed the other side of it,

0:51:16 > 0:51:19but you have all that land that, in a way, is to the side of the house,

0:51:19 > 0:51:21so it's not going to spoil the view,

0:51:21 > 0:51:23it's not going to detract from the property.

0:51:23 > 0:51:28There could be the potential there of putting a really big workshop in

0:51:28 > 0:51:31and you could have it connected to the house, if you wanted to.

0:51:31 > 0:51:35Yes, I think there is certainly the opportunity to put something there.

0:51:35 > 0:51:38- There's somewhere to put it. - Yeah. I do think it's a lovely,

0:51:38 > 0:51:40lovely building that has the potential to work for us.

0:51:40 > 0:51:42I think it could be a lovely home.

0:51:42 > 0:51:46Well, let's see what price we're going to put on our lovely home.

0:51:46 > 0:51:47What are we thinking?

0:51:47 > 0:51:51Well, I've been way out every time that I've guessed so far,

0:51:51 > 0:51:53but I'm going to go to the top of our budget.

0:51:53 > 0:51:57- I think it's probably going to be about 375.- OK.

0:51:57 > 0:52:02Bearing in mind the fact that we do have to do some work for a workshop,

0:52:02 > 0:52:07and we do need some budget, I'm going to hope around about 360.

0:52:07 > 0:52:09You're both actually very close

0:52:09 > 0:52:13cos the asking price is £369,000.

0:52:15 > 0:52:16- OK.- Yes.- That's...

0:52:16 > 0:52:18Yes. Squeezing it.

0:52:18 > 0:52:20- Yes.- But I guess we probably knew

0:52:20 > 0:52:23- that we would be squeezing it at some point.- Yes.

0:52:23 > 0:52:26Would you like to take another look around?

0:52:26 > 0:52:28- Yes.- Yes.- Yes, please.- Please do.

0:52:28 > 0:52:31The gardens, the potential for that all-important workshop.

0:52:31 > 0:52:33And come and find me when you're ready.

0:52:33 > 0:52:35- OK. Lovely.- Good.- Thank you.

0:52:40 > 0:52:42This double-fronted cottage is

0:52:42 > 0:52:44£11,000 under budget and offers a bright

0:52:44 > 0:52:48and roomy living space, plus character features

0:52:48 > 0:52:49and four bedrooms.

0:52:49 > 0:52:51It has wonderful views from the

0:52:51 > 0:52:54garden and there is also the potential to create a workshop.

0:52:54 > 0:52:58The mystery house may be remote, but it's perfectly packaged.

0:53:01 > 0:53:03This is a nice room.

0:53:03 > 0:53:06- It's a good size.- It is, actually.

0:53:06 > 0:53:09I'm not sure whether this is your work room, or my work room.

0:53:09 > 0:53:12It's promising.

0:53:12 > 0:53:14I think this house is absolutely lovely.

0:53:14 > 0:53:17It's been redeveloped in a sensitive way,

0:53:17 > 0:53:20with a great sense of style.

0:53:20 > 0:53:23It's light, it's airy and it's quirky.

0:53:23 > 0:53:25It's lovely.

0:53:25 > 0:53:26I think the house is great,

0:53:26 > 0:53:29I really do. I think it's a big house,

0:53:29 > 0:53:32there is room for what we need.

0:53:32 > 0:53:35I think the location's good.

0:53:35 > 0:53:37Because it's towards the top end of the budget

0:53:37 > 0:53:40we're got to think quite carefully.

0:53:40 > 0:53:43That would have to be factored in to the cost of building a workshop.

0:53:43 > 0:53:46The garden's perhaps a little small

0:53:46 > 0:53:50and we do have to do something with the workshop but I like it a lot.

0:53:52 > 0:53:55It is so beautiful out here today.

0:53:55 > 0:53:58- It's lovely. - Oh, and the sun's shining.

0:53:58 > 0:53:59- Glorious.- Fabulous.

0:53:59 > 0:54:02- Yeah.- Amazing views, but I'm going to have to pull you two away now,

0:54:02 > 0:54:04I'm afraid. Let's go somewhere where you two

0:54:04 > 0:54:06can have a chat on your own first.

0:54:06 > 0:54:08I'll join you and you can tell me what your

0:54:08 > 0:54:10- next move's going to be.- Right.- OK.

0:54:14 > 0:54:18Well, we know Martin and Maggie need to find a new home,

0:54:18 > 0:54:21but will they be moving into any of our properties here in Devon?

0:54:21 > 0:54:23Let's find out.

0:54:29 > 0:54:32Well, Martin and Maggie,

0:54:32 > 0:54:35I wonder how we've done here in Devon for you.

0:54:35 > 0:54:38Have we found you your next home?

0:54:38 > 0:54:40I think you might well have done.

0:54:41 > 0:54:43Sharp intake of breath.

0:54:43 > 0:54:46OK. But which one in particular took your fancy?

0:54:46 > 0:54:49I think the one that is highest on our list

0:54:49 > 0:54:52- is undoubtedly the mystery house. - Yes!

0:54:52 > 0:54:54We think it's a beautiful house.

0:54:54 > 0:54:56- Yeah.- We need to work out how we

0:54:56 > 0:54:59would handle the workshop and we are also

0:54:59 > 0:55:02a little bit uncertain about the location,

0:55:02 > 0:55:05- because it is a little bit more remote.- It is.- Yes.

0:55:05 > 0:55:09I'm going to need to go and walk round the area and see

0:55:09 > 0:55:10how I'd be able to connect with

0:55:10 > 0:55:12neighbours and what sort of community

0:55:12 > 0:55:13- there is down the hill.- Yeah.

0:55:13 > 0:55:17It is a beautiful place and a beautiful, beautiful house.

0:55:17 > 0:55:18Oh, I'm so delighted.

0:55:18 > 0:55:20Did you get that feeling that you

0:55:20 > 0:55:24- could be creative and have a lovely life at that property?- Oh, yes.

0:55:24 > 0:55:27It is a lovely house, lovely atmosphere in the house.

0:55:27 > 0:55:28Well, it's all sounding very promising,

0:55:28 > 0:55:32but what is the next important step for you two?

0:55:32 > 0:55:35Well, we have had a quick chat with the owners.

0:55:35 > 0:55:38- Already?- Yes.- Indeed.

0:55:38 > 0:55:41And we are going to go back and have another look.

0:55:41 > 0:55:46We're keen enough to get back and look at it in more detail.

0:55:46 > 0:55:48- That's tomorrow.- My goodness.

0:55:48 > 0:55:49Well, that is delightful news.

0:55:49 > 0:55:53I leave you literally for a couple of hours and this is what happens.

0:55:53 > 0:55:55Well, I hope all your questions get answered,

0:55:55 > 0:55:58that second viewing is as successful as the first.

0:55:58 > 0:55:59- Thank you.- And who knows?

0:55:59 > 0:56:01In a few weeks, a few months' time, well,

0:56:01 > 0:56:03we know you're going to be residents of Devon,

0:56:03 > 0:56:06but you might be living in that splendid mystery house.

0:56:06 > 0:56:08- Yes.- You will let us know how you get on, won't you?

0:56:08 > 0:56:12- Oh, we will.- Of course.- Delightful. Thank you both so very much.

0:56:12 > 0:56:14- Thank you.- Thank you very much, too.

0:56:18 > 0:56:23Well, I think mentally both Maggie and Martin have left Stockport way

0:56:23 > 0:56:28behind and physically are certainly a big step closer to a new life here

0:56:28 > 0:56:32in Devon. They've loved all the locations that we've shown them,

0:56:32 > 0:56:34but I am so happy that they've

0:56:34 > 0:56:38already been in touch with the owners of our mystery house

0:56:38 > 0:56:42and are having a second viewing very, very soon.

0:56:42 > 0:56:44I so hope it works out for them

0:56:44 > 0:56:47and I'll see you again on Escape To The Country.

0:56:50 > 0:56:53Maggie and Martin did revisit the mystery house and, although they

0:56:53 > 0:56:57still loved it, they've decided it was a little too remote for them.

0:56:57 > 0:57:01But I'm happy to report that they've since had an offer accepted on a

0:57:01 > 0:57:04detached cottage with a workshop in North Devon.

0:57:05 > 0:57:07If you would like to escape to the

0:57:07 > 0:57:09country in Northern Ireland, Scotland,

0:57:09 > 0:57:12Wales or England and need our help, please apply online at...