Cv Publications series of Guides to English counties is launched with my survey of Oxfordshire. It has been a journey of discovery. Rather than just passing from point A to B my excursions followed an ad-hoc schedule of diverse routes. I found myself turning down obscure side lanes leading to little villages hidden in a marvellous landscape of deep countryside. Documenting over one hundred centres the county gradually revealed itself as largely unspoilt by the industrial sprawl. Oxford itself is of course very lively and cosmopolitan, but communications and facilities are as good in the many market towns. I was really interested to note the range of properties both old and new and the particular character of an area. I hope that my guide provides details and insights that will assist your own enquiries for a new location' - Sarah James.