Good morning Ray
I didn't even remember posting this question.... right at the beginning of my research into my family history!
I do now know where the name Clutterbuck fits into my Clifford family - the "Bessie Clutterbuck" I mention in the post was my Great Grandmother. However, her real name was Elizabeth Serena Brimfield and she married Herbert Clifford. Elizabeth's mother was Bridget Brimfield née Seton. Bridget's husband, Compton Brimfield, died young (when daughter Elizabeth was just 16) and remarried to a Joseph Clutterbuck! So that is why Elizabeth was always known as Bessie Clutterbuck.... However, she always used her real surname of Brimfield/Clifford on BMD. I suppose it was a "family thing" to use the more exciting name (at least I think "Bessie Clutterbuck" is more exciting
As to the links to a noble family.... Having gone back many generations in my Clifford tree, I think that was wishful thinking on my mother's generation's part! I haven't found any relatively recent direct connection, maybe something several generations back, but not enough to move into the stately home, unfortunately!!
And as to the family wealth..... it was also always said in the family that Bessie Clutterbuck was responsible for delapidating the family money when she emigrated to South Africa and spent it all on lovers, gin and horse racing --- which I now know is somewhat unfair! She did have a very interesting life, but sad, too, poor Bessie!!
Kind regards
Tilly