We've had a change to the annual routine of limewashing the house. With Ken unable to limewash or to help Mackie erect the scaffolding for work on the upper towers, he has rented a 'boom lift' for the week. This rather peculiar machine has tractor traction, four retractable legs that act as stabilisers and a cherrypicker lift. Thanks to its manoeuvreability, Mackie has been able to reach parts of the house that have been missed for years.