When Tristan Met Paul: a Brace of Burrells

“Later, Graham – Paul’s husband – got in touch. He and Paul were exploring parts of the country that figured in Paul’s family history. Graham and I arranged a surprise VIP visit to South Ormsby Estate for Paul. He didn’t figure it out until he saw the sign for Alford.

“Jon Thornes and John Crutchley helped me put together an itinerary for the visit. At the distillery, I showed Paul a little of what goes into making award-winning artisan gins. We then enjoyed some tasty refreshments at The Old School Tea & Coffee Shop, before moving on to Keal Yard where John Crutchley showed Paul a Lincoln Red family and talked about what makes the breed special. Finally, Jon Thornes showed us around South Ormsby Hall and gave us some fascinating insights into its history.

“Paul is convinced that his and Charles Burrell Massingberd’s families are linked way back in time. We know that Elizabeth Burrell was the first wife of Sir Drayner Massingberd, the 17^th-century founder of South Ormsby Estate. Sir Drayner remarried after Elizabeth’s death in 1677, but her surname was carried forward by the children of that second marriage.

“We don’t know much about the Burrells before that. The furthest back we’ve gone is Elizabeth’s father, Abraham Burrell (1589-1657). Paul’s agent is trying to get the producers of ‘Who Do You Think You Are?’ interested in the story. That could give us some useful insights if it happens.

“Paul was thrilled with his day out at South Ormsby and presented a handwritten note of appreciation to Jon, John and me. He was good company, a down-to-earth guy with lots of stories to share.

“Paul’s career in royal circles has given him a discerning palate for fine food and drink. Apparently, the Queen still enjoys a gin-and-tonic at 3pm, although the favoured, mass-market brand of gin leaves a lot to be desired (in my humble opinion).  Paul has offered to try to get a bottle of Burrell’s Dry in front of Her Majesty. That would be an amazing honour.”