Amidst the raindrops, I lugged our overflowing bags across the dreary suburban London road towards our silver car. Packing the boot to capacity, the familiar pitter-patter of a London summer as my musical accompaniment, I returned to collect our bemused and mildly concerned dog.

Thus began our escape to the countryside, to celebrate our first wedding anniversary. Our destination: Beaconsfield, just beyond London's extremities, a bustling yet calm rural town, our place of rest and rehabilitation. Quite a contrast to 12 months before - the searing heat of the tuscan sun, our closest friends and family in tow, as we celebrated our union.