Typical

Ah yes. No access path on the Reserve.

Though you'd be risking blackthorn scrapes to even attempt it!

Michael and I were again opening up a ride through the Reserve - crown raising and cutting back. It led to the murder and torture of many trees.

And I was given a stark message.

Skull of crow. It could hardly be clearer than that.

We called a halt to proceedings when I had blunted my chainsaw and both of us had run out of fuel.

A little time to actually appreciate the place.

Swans.

One had been standing next to a path as we drove along. He did not deign to move. Just turned his head to watch us and wagged his tail to express his displeasure. A buzzard flew along in front of us. A flock of redwings. A robin watched. A song thrush, blackbirds, tits, gulls and coots called out. The cormorants were collecting sticks for their nests. Muntjacs turned and fled. A rabbit grazed the ride and squirrels scampered through the trees. Pheasants flew off with their loud panicked cries.

In 1970 there were half as many humans and twice as many wild mammals and birds. I am one of those extra humans.