my photo

KESTREL

I was so fortunate to have my camera at the ready for this shot of an adult male kestrel hovering for its prey, without success. It was loitering with intent overhead for a fair while.

A kestrel's head will remain still whilst hovering, to make detection of its prey much easier.

Please click on photo to enlarge.

u

my photo

BLACKBIRD

A fledgling up to its tricks, enjoying the berries from an Amelanchier tree.

y

my photos

CEPHALARIA - GIANT SCABIOUS

Giant being the operative word! This plant requires a lot of space.

A hardy perennial with pincushion heads of lemon-yellow flowers. A lovely addition to a cottage style garden, and makes a pretty stem for cutting. Its nectar is loved by both butterflies and bees.



The weather here in the South has been gorgeous, with warm, sunny days, with an odd blip here and there!

With longer daylight hours, evenings have been spent titivating, with more serious gardening only happening on days off.

Maybe now's the time to sit back and enjoy the fruits of one's labour!

u

my photos

THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND SHOW

A show celebrating countryside, rural life and farming, is held annually at the South of England Showground at Ardingly.



One favourite display of mine was From Plot to Plate, 'grow your own' harvested straight from the allotment, set amongst vintage kitchen and garden 'alia.



For the first time since the Second World War, food seeds are outselling flower seeds. No longer just a hobby to keep occupied in retirement, an allotment plot is popular with all ages. With organic produce and thrift on the menu, once vacant sites are now full, with long waiting lists.



Gromit measuring his marrow, with prize winning potential!



When it comes to Pot Leeks, among the men of Geordieland, size is important! Competitions date to the late 19th century, when miners began organising shows in clubs and pubs, paying a little each week to fund prizes.

Things have now become so serious that some exhibitors spend the night out with their vegetables to guard against intruders. It has been known for men to sleep with their leeks more often than they do with their wives!

A recipe for a traditional North East Leek Pudding, a recipe dating back to the 18th century.

u