Text and pics contributed by Christina
Glen and I enjoyed a long weekend doing local walks. Since this last lockdown started around Christmas, we have resorted again to exploring the area around Pinewood, as far as our trained hikers’ feet can comfortably carry us on one day.
So much is happening out there if you take time to observe: snowdrops and daffodils and crocuses everywhere, and the pretty white blossoms could be a hawthorn.
On 1st March we walked part of the path around Alton Water where we stopped for lunch and observed the numerous water birds. A large grey heron who was fishing close to a couple of swans caught our eye; they seemed to tolerate each other. A cormorant flew across the water and there were several interesting looking ducks. Most of all I was taken by the beauty and calmness of the reservoir on a mainly cloudy Monday afternoon, no visitors apart from a couple walking their dogs.
I felt rather sad walking past the White Horse Pub which is just off the main path by the reservoir where we have had many pints in winter near the open fire place, and good chats with fellow walkers all year round. Now the pub looks as if it has been deserted a long time, and probably facing an uncertain future due to prolonged lockdown.
We are just so lucky to have places like Alton Water, the Suffolk Foodhall near Wherstead Village and Shotley Peninsular near Ipswich. The list is long 😀