More from The Old Gatehouse: Bertram takes a shower

This is the third book in ’The Old Gatehouse’ series. It follows the fortunes and day-to-day lives of the Barnes family as it moves between Caiston Estate and Fenland. Set in the early nineteen-twenties, it begins as Anthony embraces life as a chorister at Beeley Cathedral Choir School, lodging with his uncle, Canon Fortesque. Being a typical Barnes, he quickly finds himself caught up in an exciting adventure following a surprising discovery when on his school friend’s farm. This has wide-reaching consequences. Lord Barnes has his usual brush with danger and an unforgettable culinary experience, whilst Michael and Lucy’s family expands in an unforeseen way. At the Wentley farmhouse in Fenland, much hilarity is caused by Uncle Bertram’s antics. These set off a chain of events which become of great interest to the police. As for Uncle Harold - time will tell!

As the threads of the story are drawn together, Uncle Bertram hosts a wonderful Midsummer Jamboree and there are yet more celebrations to bring the book to a fitting conclusion. Humour and warmth permeate the pages of this hugely readable family tale from the pen of nonagenarian, Stanley Scott.