The abandoned house down the lane has been sold. It’s been empty for years, during which time, the roof on the verandah type structure has collapsed, a huge crack has opened up on the main wall, and nature has moved in, with vines creeping along in what one day, I imagine, will be the kitchen and living room.

Why it took the original owners so long to put it on the market, I don’t know but we’re pleased it’s been sold and went to introduce ourselves to our new ‘neighbour,’ who’s wasted no time in chopping back the vegetation, clearing a patch of land for his truck and, thankfully, removing the dangerous roof.

He owns a gelateria in Marina di Carrara (I feel a visit there would only be polite!) and is related to some other newcomers in the village, whose house is situated on the main road above this one.

The house is a project, he tells us, and his plans are as yet, uncertain, but we’re happy that the house is being rescued and hopefully, lovingly restored.