'Although it is one of the smaller counties, Buckinghamshire has a strong individual identity, with the Chiltern Hills, steep roads going down through beechwoods and the blue distances of Aylesbury Vale. It is historic, with plenty of Oliver Cromwell and Royalist connections. There are some thriving county towns: Aylesbury, High Wycombe and Milton Keynes. It is also conveniently close to London. The Grand Union Canal cuts right down from north to south and there are several sailing clubs' - Janet Barber.