A vanishing view?

A surprisingly busy Saturday. The middle part of the day was spent carrying out more survey in Castor and Ailsworth parishes. Despite the rather blustery wind there were plenty of butterflies about, including many Small Tortoiseshells, which were busy nectaring on the bramble (see extra). We walked along the southern boundary of Castor Hanglands and spotted several very local species - White Admiral, Silver-washed Fritillary and a freshly emerged Purple Hairstreak.

Although this part of the country doesn't have spectacular scenery, it is pleasant , particularly when there's a good cloudscape. This is the view south towards Castor church - in a few years time much of the middle ground will probably be occupied by four new 'villages' containing about 5000 houses, unless a good enough case can be made to prevent the development.

In the evening Pete and I went to a friend's sixtieth birthday party, which was held in the garden of a pub at Barholm. The weather was perfect, and it was good to catch up with old friends. The birthday cake was baked and decorated by the 94 year old step-father of the host - it looked and tasted absolutely amazing!  There was also an excellent live band, and then dancing till closing time - a fine way to end a busy week..