Page Eighteen

If you sit on the bench, in front of you is a hedge rich in blackthorn, a thorny plant with pretty white flowers in spring before its leaves develop. Its berries, called sloes, have traditionally been used to flavour gin.

To your right is there is much honeysuckle. Its pale coloured flowers and strong fragrance in the evening attract moths which pollinate it.

As you walk up to the Access Road the thick bramble on your left provides a rich nectar source for insects in summer.

In autumn the berries are food for animals and birds fattening up before winter or before migrating to warmer places. Birds can nest safely here, protected by it thorny branches.

Cross the private road which leads to the farm with care.