NEW HOLLYCOMBE Steam in the Country manager Simon Wildgust can’t wait until Easter, when the Liphook attraction once again opens its doors to the public.

Having been a manager at attractions including Explosion! and the Submarine Museum in Gosport, Simon brings lots of experience to the role.

“I was very much attracted to the potential that Hollycombe has,” said Simon.

“I visited Hollycombe on the last visiting day of the 2017 season, and was impressed by the work of the volunteers, and the enthusiasm both they and the visitors clearly had for the attraction. That is something we hope to build on during the months ahead.”

Living in Petersfield, Simon takes the train to Liphook, from where he walks along bridleways to the museum office.

“It’s a very pleasant walk – though Hollycombe is situated at the top of Iron Hill, which is quite steep,” said Simon.

“That said, the views across the South Downs and the Weald that you can see from Hollycombe are outstanding.”

As a keen photographer, Simon has been spending much time acquainting himself with Hollycombe’s listed gardens.

He said: “I wasn’t aware of the wealth of trees and the diversity of the plantings that Hollycombe offers – many rare trees and shrubs can be found in the grounds.

“It’s true to stay that Hollycombe offers as much to garden lovers as it does to steam enthusiasts.

“From a garden perspective, we are probably best known for our displays of bluebells, rhododendrons and camellias, followed by the showy Mollis azalea hybrids in early May, but there are many beautiful walks with superb views.”

Over the winter the Hollycombe team has placed a cupola at the end of a hedge lined avenue, from where extensive views can be had looking out over the South Downs.

“They’ve done a fantastic job and we hope it will attract a new audience to Hollycombe,” said Simon.

Simon has set up an Instagram page for Hollycombe. Birds and wildlife feature alongside garden views and the collection of fairground rides and steam engines for which the site is renowned.