Grand Design's Kevin McCloud visits Hereford Town Hall

The Grand Designs presenter, who discussed his new book Grand Designs at 25: Game-changing designs from the iconic series, was a hit with the audience, with several applauses throughout the evening.

Mr McCloud was quizzed on several aspects of the hit Channel 4 show, including some of his favourite builds.

McCloud revealed that one of his favourite projects was that of Ed and Rowena Waghorne's "curvy" house in Herefordshire, which they embarked on in 2000 after buying an eight-acre plot in the county. The family eventually moved into the building in 2014, with McCloud adding he was still in touch with the couple.

The presenter was also asked why he moved to Herefordshire, "it’s a little bit cheaper” he joked, before adding that it’s “it’s very very beautiful”.

McCloud moved to the county in 2021, purchasing a £1.1 million farmhouse in Bosbury.

He added that he feels the need to be at peace in the natural world, and there’s still a “fighting chance of doing that in this county”. 

Throughout the evening, McCloud discussed the process behind the TV show and even offered some advice to eager self-builders.

The presenter said that it was crucial to ask for help from those around you, adding that 
“the world is full of people who have learnt the tough way and they want to share with you".

The event was hosted by Rossiter's Bookshop which has shops in Hereford, Malvern, Monmouth, Ross-On-Wye, Cheltenham and Leominster.

Owner of the business, Andy Rossiter, told the Hereford Times that the evening had been a great success, with over 200 people attending. He added that the team have enjoyed being on Church Street since opening last year, adding it was a "terrific" street to be on.

The shop has recently hosted celebrity chef and author Rick Stein, with fans queueing to get their books signed, as well as welcoming Hereford's very own the Beefy Boys, to celebrate their new book; The Beefy Boys: From Backyard BBQ to World-Class Burgers.