Country set go for life in the fast lane

COUNTRY LIFE, the upmarket magazine for those claiming an interest in all things rural, has undergone many image changes in its 100-year plus history.

Last year, to celebrate its centenary it published its first nude pictures, one of which was a naked woman wearing only a string of pearls. Queen Victoria, one of the magazines first "girls in pearls" probably would not have been amused, but it undoubtedly helped update the magazine's image.

In its latest dose of trendiness, the magazine has opted for "girls in leather", courtesy of Chloe Courtauld who is photographed in biker gear sitting astride a shiny Honda CBR600.

Ms Courtauld, 25, daughter of Richard Courtauld of the textiles family, features in the magazine's traditional frontispiece.

"I like to think of it as sparks and diamonds," said Miss Courtauld, who works at a London jewellers.

"I thought the concept was great fun. It gets away from the country girl image. It is a bit more eye catching for Country Life."

The magazine's features editor, Melanie Cable-Alexander, said they were keen to keep the magazine's image up to date.

"Doesn't she look great? People tend to think we are all about tweeds and pearls, but country girls are changing. They tend to look a lot more groovy than they used to," she said.

She added: "The countryside is seen as a bit fusty and geriatric and the girl is a blast of fresh air. She represents more modern image of a country girl."

Of course, only the cynical would whisper the words publicity stunt and point out that "country girl" Ms Courtald comes from south-west London.