27 JULY 1951, Page 18

COUNTRY LIFE

Tim Waterperry Nurseries, which I mentioned a fortnight ago, has- caught up and recharged with vitality the moribund (or shall I say murdered ?) tradition of the Big House in the palmiest days—not merely of its prosperity but responsibility for land and neighbourhood. Henoc, it is fitting that the staff should occupy the, manor which enjoys a setting of church, stables, park and gardens of as traditional a beauty as to satisfy the most exacting artistry of Vanbrugh, Bridgeman, Hawksmool, Kent or Repton. Never have I seen such training in horticulture and garden crops as the girls receive in this haunt of ancient peace and landscape-gardening. For once, past and present are good neighbours.