­Once again we are being led to believe we can look forward to a barbeque summer and, as I write, the weather does appear to be doing its stuff. I can tell that this is the case because we are already being warned of an impending water shortage!

If we do have lots of ‘lazy hazy days’ to come Gill Roger’s Relax and Enjoy, together with Beccy Paget’s Beach Hut Beauty, are the ideal combination for comfortable garden or beach lounging whilst keeping your book, glasses and sun cream to hand.

If you should happen to be wearing the cool and comfortable tunic detailed by Lynn Vale in Summertime Blues then, as the evening becomes chilly, cover up with Stunning Sashiko, a kimono jacket by Jan Wright made using the new Babylock Sashiko machine.

For a little light reading as you relax in the sun, turn to Christine Robinson’s A Girl’s Best Friend, a fascinating history of the earliest sewing machines.

A Vintage Treasure from Janet Carley details how to make a needle or note case in the delicate style of embroidered silk and lace that we look forward to from Janet. Pam Neave combines the pretty with the practical in her easy to make Crafty Craft Bags. Carolyn Sinclair continues with software lessons in Quality Quilting and puts the new adjustable table from Horn Cabinets through a rigorous test of its suitability for wheelchair users.

After the success of Grandmother’s Pillowsham George Le Warré has digitised 124 designs for Grandmother’s Counterpane, a marvel of cream on cream. All proceeds raised from the sale of his disc will go to the Dog’s Trust, George’s favourite charity, although there is a chance to try before you buy by way of a free download.

We have a new competition for you, and this time it’s something really unusual. Read Afghanistan - The Land That Time Forgot to realise how the lives of some women in the world can be changed for the better and enter the competition to do your bit for these ladies.

Happy summer reading, until the next time

Best wishes