25th August 2007

Woke up at about 8. Got up and restarted the fire. We had a heavy dew last night. Our rubbish bag had been opened and a yoghurt pot taken out and chewed. We came to the conclusion it was probably a fox. Made breakfast. Porridge was close to perfect this time, and serving it in a bowl helped retain the heat. Made toast on the mesh part of the stand, which was perfect.

After breakfast we headed into town to have a look around and do some shopping. We went to the castle first. It was much more impressive and interesting than I thought it would be. We then went into town and got some pasties, sandwiches and drink. We went back to the Castle Lawn and ate in the shade of the trees. We were then going to go to look at the museum, but it was closed (only open on weekdays). After getting some provisions we headed back to the camp.

The sun is really beating down and we are seeking some shade. Steve and the boys are going to have play their "wide game", which is a sort of hide and seek.

At about 4pm a Buzzard flew low over The Hollies and was mobbed by BBJs (Big Black Jobs), probably crows. Ravens were also heard, but not seen on this occasion. Nathanael saw a fox on the track between The Hollies and Fernbank. Will saw what he thinks was a common lizard on the bank at the corner of the turn into The Hollies. Steve saw a Striped Winged Grasshopper, identified by its red markings.

Rekindled the fire and baked some potatoes. Took about 45-50 minutes. Had then with baked beans and cheese, followed by rice pudding and a cup of tea.

It is decidely cooler this evening. It feels like there is a mist rolling in. Complete cloud cover, and quite hazy by 7:30. By9:30 the dew was dripping off the trees and the air was damp and cold, so we decided to turn in for the night. Nat found a tan-coloured frog or toad by their tent.