While researching the history of her own house in Chitterne, Sue Robinson’s knowledge of both her home and the village she lived in expanded enormously, helped by the introduction of a community website. So much so in fact that the author of this book decided to put all her new-found knowledge into a book detailing Chitterne’s ancient history and people.

Chitterne is a small, chalkland Wiltshire village located rather ominously on Salisbury Plain, three miles from Codford and five miles from Shrewton. Although the vast majority of Salisbury Plain is owned by the Ministry of Defence, and used for military training, there are still enclaves criss-crossed with ancient trackways, and one or two community-minded villages still thriving, Chitterne being one of them.

In her book, Sue Robinson goes back through the centuries to the Domesday Survey of 1086, tracking the history of the lords of the manor to the village people of the 20th century. Farming has been the mainstay of this attractive village historically and, the author says, it “has been the main reason for Chitterne’s existence.” A chapter of the book is devoted to the history of farming in the area.

This meticulously researched local history book is sure to find some devotees, particularly as it is enthused with such passionate writing.
Anne Morris.