Leominster'S Grange Court, the former town Market Hall, will be an image long stored in the memory of many a tourist. Providing a picturesque backdrop to cricket matches played on the Grange, Leominster's wide, open park, Grange Court was moved to its current site in 1856 after the locals decided it was blocking the highway.The external woodcarvings are one interesting feature of this beautiful black and white building which incorporates work by John Abel, the King's carpenter. Etnam Street museum has lots of local and farming history items on display, and the Priory Church, which has Saxon origins, is thought to have been a very important religious centre in pre-Norman Conquest times.

Much enjoyment is to be found, though, in simply walking through the intersting narrow streets and dipping into the array of small and varied shops. Leominster provides a good base for exploration of the region, which has many fascinating attractions on offer.

Those who enjoy the beauty of nature can take in Burford House Gardens, featuring the National

Clematis Collection, or pay a visit to Dinmore Manor and Gardens where there is a 1200 year old

Yew tree. Humber Marsh Nature Reserve plays host to a range of habitats and wildlife on its 13

acres, and is an interesting visit, whatever the time of year, with the possibility of discovering something new every season. Wine enthusiasts can sample, and buy, Herefordshire wine at Broadfield Vineyards in Bodenham where vines were first planted almost 25 years ago.

Moving further afield, the market towns of Kington and Tenbury Wells are easily accessible and

have attractions and history all their own. The Working Horse Centre at Banley Farm, near

Kington has many old farm vehicles, some locally made, and stables which date back to the turn of

the century.

The horses, of which there are several varieties, are joined by many other farm animals including a white donkey, a herd of Dexter cattle and a flock of sheep with several rare breeds. The more

intrepid visitory can discover flying with a trial lesson at the Herefordshire Aero Club in Shobdon, where they have been teaching people to fly since 1962.

Not the elitist sport that many people imagine, flying is neither difficult nor requiring of academic qualifications, all that is required by the prospective pilot is enthusiasm.