Garden Report 

Well now the winter is setting in, and the seasonal tidy up begins, cutting back, leaves swept and sucked up. No lawns to cut or water, and a rest from flowers and colour, which I for one find good. I love the light and simplicity of winter, and we have many trees to enjoy. It is worth noting that much effort went into making sure they were pollarded (pruned) sufficiently over the last few years, and were done so well that there was no damage whatsoever in the storm a few weeks ago, despite the fact that all trees were in full leaf.

< There have been no complaints about the gardens this year, but it's very important to improve matters. Graham always says that structural changes can be effectect economically from now until May. Once the leaves have been dealt with, there's no growth. Winter is ideal for new fencing, dealing with ivy etc. If we can make sure any available budget is allowed now for such work, our estate will improve. If we wait until february or later, we get into the new season and it's all too late