There was a time when those residents of industrial cities such as Manchester and its environs who had a little money to spare would build themselves a holiday home in the rural hinterland. North east Cheshire was a popular place as it was well served by buses and trains whilst being suitably rural and a great contrast to the urban grime. Some became permanent homes for families. There were many of these wooden houses in use throughout the first half of the 20th century but after that they steadily fell into disuse as people became more mobile and holiday destinations changed. In my own village this was the last one to survive although it had not been used for many years. Last week the demolition men came and it was quickly taken down and burned. I was sad to see it go but it no longer had a purpose. I shall still miss seeing it as a reminder of simpler times.