ON June 18 a group of 31 Probus members and partners were privileged to visit Bromesberrow Place, home of The Hon. Gilbert Greenall.

They heard a compelling talk by their host on his humanitarian work overseas.

A former soldier, Gilbert qualified as a doctor and embarked on the management of humanitarian crises, on behalf of either the British Government or the UN, in such war-torn areas as Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia, Angola and Bosnia. His fascinating story is shortly to be published as a book entitled Combat Civilian.

Members and guests then enjoyed tours of the house and garden. The former comprises a Regency Greek Revival front added to an original Georgian structure.

Among the many fascinating domestic items was a collection of English sporting art and portraits of Gilbert's forebears. Since acquiring the property in the early 1990s Gilbert has initiated a programme of extensive improvements and restoration work.

The house sits within a 1200 acre estate, including 200 acres of parkland and well-tended gardens.

Head gardener David Myers conducted a tour of the latter, including the walled area with its extensive box hedging, fruit trees and vines.

The former Camellia House is now used to shelter a collection of tender plants including lemon trees.

The day ended with Gilbert joining members for an excellent buffet lunch during which they had the opportunity of sampling his estate wine.