Woodcock	and Snipe

There was a  Woodcock in the Valley yesterday. They have incredible camouflaged, and on a woodland path they will sit tight till you almost tread on them. Woodcock used to breed up at the Priddy Mineries but it is many year since I last heard, usually in spring at dusk, the males grunting flight. I often see them in local Wookey Hole woods – but not normally till the cold of midwinter drives them down from the higher Mendip Woods this one is very early. 

Even those of us who already knew what an amazing place Ebbor Gorge is were thrilled by the walks put on by Natural England at their open day in October.   Apart from the wildlife and spectacular scenery of this ‘Cheddar Gorge in miniature’  right on our doorstep, the caves and rock shelters give  insight into our prehistoric past.

On Guy Fawkes day, Nov.5th 2015, I'm happy to put a note on the board, sharing my feelings for living in Wookey Hole with a friendly bunch of people.I'm finding my feet, step by step, while enjoying long walks and chats, the beautiful views, walks with Oswald a good neighbor's dog. Country life is the best, I find, after leaving city life in Holland. Now that the days grow shorter, I wish to express my appreciation and to you all a happy wintertime and warm feet.

Marian van der Veen.

Samhain Bonfire Evening

Saturday 24th October at 6pm