I went with the Oxford Preservation Trust to Lord Nuffield’s home, which is now a National Trust property, but not yet open to the public.
As William Morris he had been a prominent designer and businessman inventing cycles, motorcycles and cars.
The city of Oxford owes much to him for the work opportunities and prosperity that his skills provided.
As a war baby, I remembered seeing Nuffield College being built, just another result of Lord Nuffield’s generosity to many good causes.
In today’s equivalent, he actually gave away £11½ billion, so I had no idea what a billionaire’s home would look like.
It turned out to be a charming and quite modest home, set in beautiful grounds.
A real home, loved and used.There was a room furnished with tables and chairs of the type seen in any community hall.
On one wall was a board with comments that Lord Nuffield had made.
One quote struck home to me, and I thought of those involved in the riots and criminal activities: he was asked “what is the possession you value most?” and Lord Nuffield replied: “Common sense.”
BRIONY NEWPORT, Stanley Close, North Hinksey
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