Old cottage in Somerset village + ceramics, collie, chickens & piano

About this assignment

Mature, responsible, art and collie lover. In wintertime a familiarity with a solid fuel Rayburn would be an advantage (not essential). Ours is an old small cottage in a historic Somerset village with a large garden. It has a 'lived in' feel and is full of ceramics and artworks plus a people loving collie who loves to play. An interest in garden maintenance would be helpful.

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

Two dog walks a day (fields 2 minutes away if you want) plus the usual doggie tasks like picking up poo off the lawn!! Feeding the chickens and a weekly clean out. Watering house plants weekly (over 20), winding the clocks weekly, occasional dyson & dust. If cold weather: running the coal-fired Rayburn for heating and hot water (but there is solar hot water too). Mowing the lawns (in summer).

What are the good features of the property and location

Lovely historic 3 bedroom cottage and large contained garden - both full of interesting things! Comfortable and cosy; warm in winter, cool in summer. 3 comfortable double beds (no king sizes here!) Garage, Post Office and 2 village shops a few hundred metres away. Beautiful Quantock Hills 6 minutes drive away. Coast within walking distance or short drive.

What does the house sitter need to consider before applying for this assignment

Are you an experienced dog walker/handler? Are you OK to look after chickens? Do you like old cluttered (potentially dusty) cottages - may not be good for asthmatics. Though not unwelcome this property is not really suited to lively toddlers or very curious young children - eg the large pond is no longer covered and there are too many breakable things lying around. It needs someone steady on their feet - there are a few steps and not all the paving etc is totally even.

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