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Summary

When Nickomo and Rasullah Clarke moved into their new house in the centre of Wanstrow, they wanted to take the opportunity to include a number of energy saving and renewable features. As well as supplementing the insulation, they installed photovoltaic panels for production of electricity, which they are very pleased with, and a solar thermal system. They are gradually making other changes too, such as replacing interior lights with more energy efficient ones, and hope one day to have an alternative to their oil-fired boiler.

Outside, the Clarkes have used the space to create a very productive vegetable garden, and to provide wildlife habitat.

Green features in the house

• Solar panels for hot water
• Photovoltaic panels for generating electricity
• Insulated walls
• High levels of loft insulation, including sheeps’ wool fleece
• Double glazing
• Wood burner which uses wood cut from garden

Green features in the garden

• Large, productive vegetable garden and greenhouse
• Soft fruit, fruit and nut trees
• Willows for variety of uses
• Six water butts
• Nesting boxes for birds

Energy use

Electricity costs for 2008: approximately £300
Oil costs for 2008: approximately £850 for oil fired heating system
Much of the wood in 2008 came from a large sycamore tree in the garden which was reduced in size

Suppliers used and recommended

The sheeps wool insulation came from Black Mountain insulation. ‘Buying direct from them was much cheaper than from other dealers.’

To find out more

To contact the Clarkes, or for more information about this property, contact rasullah@btinternet.com

Directions

Wanstrow is 6 miles South West of Frome. From the A361 turn onto the A359 at Nunney Catch roundabout (with the Esso station and the Chinese restaurant). After a couple of miles, turn left immediately after the village sign for Wanstrow. Follow this semi-circular road past the first crossing of the brook (white railings), and Awen is on the right just before the second crossing (look out for greenhouse and solar panels).
From Bruton, take the A359 to Frome and after about 5 miles you’ll reach Wanstrow. Pass a garage on the left (Byrne’s motors), then take the right turn straight after the pub. Keep going till you see the white railings and footbridge over the brook, and Awen is on the left (greenhouse/solar panels).

The nearest regular buses are to Nunney Catch roundabout’