Superb family home

But while upping sticks and moving to the Hebrides is not altogether practical, buying a house in Orkney Road, Cosham, rather than a road in Orkney, could still be a good move.

And who better to introduce you to such a property than local estate agent Colin Shairp?

Among the city’s estate agents, Colin is perhaps uniquely qualified because as a native of Luing (pronounced Ling) he was actually born on a Scottish island although Orkney itself would be pretty far adrift even for him.

Colin also knows plenty about the local property scene after about 30 years in Portsmouth estate agency.

So whether you want to ask him about Scottish islands or the qualities of southern Hampshire properties he should be able to give all the answers.

The house in Orkney Road, which has recently been updated by the current owners is a four-bedroom detached with a double garage and parking area to the front and boasting an attractive rear garden.

‘There’s a large patio area running the width of the house to meet the conservatory at the rear of the drawing room,’ says Colin. ‘It then extends along the side of the garden with curved brick edging dividing it from the lawn.

‘It creates a glorious space for sitting out to enjoy the warmth of the sun.’

Orkney Road is perfectly placed for access to Cosham and commuting routes.