This afternoon it cleared up a bit so on checking the rainfall radar map there was time to go to Cousland.  It is a little village with an old smiddy that is sometimes open for demonstrations and used as a heritage hub for the community.  It has worked continuously there since at least 1703 and the adjoining building was the village centre for the working and social life and continues to be a centre for gatherings.  As in many rural villages, the blacksmith’s used to be one of the most important places before horses were superseded and it became easy to buy household equipment in shops.  There is no longer a school, shop or a bus service but it remains a quiet location with some attractive old cottages.   Fortunately the rain held off till I was almost home when the heavy rain returned and subsequently discovered that it had been open with demonstrations this morning, however I have been before.