SOME of the district’s most impressive properties opened their doors to the public at the weekend for the much anticipated return of the Eco Open Homes.

The event on Saturday and Sunday saw homeowners from some of Stroud’s most architecturally inspiring and sustainably built houses welcome complete strangers.

The open days marked the culmination of the week-long Stroud Valleys Showcase, which sought to celebrate the district’s green and eco achievements.

Visitors were treated to guided tours and demonstrations, while home owners shared their knowledge and passion for sustainable living.

The showcase also gave residents a chance to explore some of the innovative techniques and technologies that can contribute to making homes energy efficient and sustainable.

Event organiser Helen Royall said: “The Eco Homes open day was a great way to end a great week for Stroud.

“We had hundreds of people visiting the over the weekend. Some of the home owners were amazed by how many people showed up.

“One had 30 people within the first hour and another even had people queuing outside her house in the morning.

“It’s great to know people in Stroud have such an interest in sustainable living.

“The rest of the events during the Showcase were fantastic too. The weather held out and people really got involved.

“I think many residents will have learnt a lot more about some of the amazing things happening here in Stroud.

“We really do lead the way in so many sustainable and eco projects and organisations – so it was great to see them celebrated.

“Plus the feedback I’ve got since has been fantastic. I won’t be organising the event next year – but hopefully someone else will step forward and make sure this great community event continues for years to come.”

Houses from across the district took part, from Stroud and Whitesill to Stonehouse and King’s Stanley.

The Green Shop in Bisley also took part to show off its innovative solar and biomass heating, PV, green roofs, rainwater harvesting and natural paints yellow salt bin.

Other inspirational technologies indulged air source heat pump, super-insulation, a Mechanical Ventilation & Heat Recovery unit (MVHR), solar shading and house orientation and the use of LED lighting.

The event was organised by Stroud Nature and Transition Stroud.

Events throughout the week saw free exhibitions, displays and discussions on sustainable and community-led projects in the district.

An exhibition last weekend also saw talks given on four different topics: Waste, Food, Nature and Energy.

For further information visit stroudvalleysshowcase.org.uk/

Pictures by Paul Nicholls. www.paulnichollsphotogrpahy.com