In this episode I tell a story based in the beautiful village of Amport.

Based on an old English folk tale, 'The Baker's Daughter of Amport' tells the story of a baker’s daughter who pays a magical price for her lack of kindness.

It’s a little bit spooky this one, so if you are listening with very young children it may not be the best episode for bedtime!

Having said that, children do love a spooky tale!

Versions of this tale date back to before Shakespearean times and is referenced by Shakespeare in Hamlet (Act 4 Scene 5) when Ophelia says:

"……….They say the owl was a

baker's daughter. Lord! we know what we are, but

know not what we may be"

So also a great listen for anyone studying or interested in Shakespeare.

After the story I interview Tom Morath, from The Hawk Conservancy Trust which is also based in Amport. Tom tells me some fascinating facts about owls. There is also a surprise guest - Troy the Tawny owl who is also extremely chatty!!

The episode is accompanied by music from renowned folk musician Paul Sartin and Hampshire Country Dance Tunes from the Pyle family manuscript of 1822.

This story is part of Test Valley Tales.

'Test Valley Tales' is an Arts Council Funded project and one of Test Valley Arts Foundation's Borough of Culture Legacy Projects. All the stories are set in the beautiful landscape of Test Valley which is in Hampshire in England.

There is also an illustrated book of the all the stories which accompanies this podcast. This is available from my website. Please see link below.

Hope you enjoy it!

Story written by Amanda Kane-Smith, based on a traditional English folk tale.

Podcast produced by Miles Kane-Smith.

Music by Paul Sartin recorded at WildGoose Records in Wherwell.

Test Valley Tales can be found on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter as @testvalleytales.

For more information please go to:

www.merry-go-roundstorytelling.co.uk/testvalleytales