10th October 2004

I had arranged to Meet Mike Roe from the Forestry Commission, for him to inspect the work I have been doing under the Woodland Grant Scheme. He said he was very impressed with the work and was happy to approve my application for payment.

Once Mike had left I had a wonder around. I located a Sweet Chesnut close to the Main Gate. Close by the track is covered with deer tracks. Further into the south-east corner I spotted a small Rhododendrun. This will have to be removed in the near future. My walk took me to the Hollies where I heard a noise in the thicket. Then all of a sudden a deer crashed through the trees and away. Not sure of the species as I could only see a partial silouette.

Moving on I followed the new track towards the western side of the wood. This is where the new quarry has been opened. Unfortnuately, despite all of the recent rain, it is dry. The underlying stone is just too porous to hold water. I now have to decide whether to leave it as it is, or whether to import some clay. Down by the stream, the twisted beech tree is still upright, but shows even more signs of decay. Close by a Robin flitters through the trees.

Whilst stopped for a cup of tea in the new clearing where the cabin will be located, I happened to see a bird at the top of a nearby tree. On closer inspection it turned out to be a woodpecker. By comparing details with my bird book I have determined that it is a Greater Spotted Woodpecker. Identifying features are its silouette, its call, its behaviour and the white patches on its wings. It remained for some time before moving on to pastures new.

By 2pm I had done all I set out to, and so headed back home to Wiltshire.