The naming of storms has been going on since the 1500s, but it wasn’t until 2015 when the UK followed in the footsteps of the US and started naming them. As storm Alex hits the UK waterproofs were a must as I strolled across the Country Park this morning. Another high rainfall with more to come today, the outlook is good if you are a Snail of a Slug relying on moisture to survive. Both of which I found this morning; Garden snail, White-lipped Snail and Leopard Slug a pretty Slug with a pinkish body, covered in dark blotches and spots.
A curious little flower drew my attention; with dark green feathery leaves, flat top clusters of flower heads and light pink florets, Yarrow I believe. Walking down a slightly sheltered footpath in the hope I might hear or see some small birds, but my hood was haltering my ability to hear past the constant tap of rain.
Entering Johnston Meadow from the North I admired the stone tablet;
‘This Wildflower meadow was sown in November 1994, to commemorate the favourite walk of Brian Johnston C.B.E M.C broadcaster and author, 1912 – 1994.’
He wasn’t wrong, it certainly is a lovely walk, with the rain on my back (and now slightly coming through my waterproofs) I walked down the meadow edge, parallel to the Western Dry-stone wall, reminiscing of the summer when the blue sky was filled with the sound of Skylarks and the ground adorned with a multitude of colourful wildflowers. Today the bright green freshly cut grass held the secrets of next years bounty. Approaching the Southern boundary, the English Channel was looking fierce and wild while above Swallows dive and turn in what seemed like a fast forward motion.
Through South field 2 Ravens fly overhead their strong outstretched wings keeping them buoyant as they fly in a flap flap glide motion. They were followed by 30 or so Pigeons and as I turned the corner the sound of a little singular Robin called from within the Brambles, peering in I found it looking damp with ruffled feathers.