Garlanding Bryony

Along the lane in the hedgerows the Black Bryony (Tamus communis) is beginning to twist and turn into ropes of nature's necklaces, hanging from twigs and weaving in and out of the other plants and shrubs. The berries are bright but very poisonous and can be fatal if eaten. In the Middle Ages these red berries were used for removing freckles and healing bruises and when pickled in alcohol as a remedy for chilblains!

A chain had broken on the round-baler so Tim dashed a few miles away to get it mended before continuing the rush to bale the straw before the rain. Thankfully this was achieved and his mate returned to Cornwall to milk cows and the contractors baling the oat straw also went home. Meanwhile I drove N down to the local hospital for a blood test - he got out of going to Bristol this once - and we were back by mid-morning. In the afternoon we were sent off to the agricultural suppliers the other side of town to get another roll of bale wrap.

By late afternoon all was done and the rain didn't arrive until night had fallen. T went off to the pub to meet a friend and relax after a hectic couple of days.