During recent renovation works on one of our traditional stone cottages on Leys Estate, we uncovered a small but remarkable piece of local history.

Tucked beneath the floorboards was a page from The Press and Journal, dated Saturday, 24th March 1928. Preserved for nearly a century, the page offers a fascinating snapshot of life in the north-east at that time. From local industry and stock reports to international headlines of the day.

Discoveries such as this serve as a powerful reminder that the buildings across the Estate have long histories.

Our ongoing programme of renovation and maintenance ensures that traditional properties like this cottage remain comfortable and fit for modern living, while retaining the character and craftsmanship that define them.

While we may never know who placed the newspaper beneath the floorcovering around 1928, it is a privilege to care for buildings that connect past and present in such tangible ways.