Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

Eastrans driver Maryla, shouting at me that she has video footage of me on my bicycle “road raging” her bus after she shouted at me for bicycles to get off the road. This was five minutes later when I finally caught her, four or five passengers were arguing with her that she should not attack cyclists and that they were allowed on the road! Vic. registration 5485-AO

The Voles & JB's tree 1/11/2014

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Thank you John,

Some cracking photos, showing 4 seasons in a single day.

Also....What a hardy bunch?....drinking tea and eating buns in the snow.

Also raises lots of questions , such as what was our Boss Tim contemplating as he sat alone gazing at the fire, Just how many bananas did Andy have, what was in Mike's bag, What was in Jim's yoghurt[?] pot, and was Dave Clarke frozen to the spot given his position In 3 photos was the same?

We can all look forward to a repeat next Tuesday,

Respect,

Barry.

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Hi All

Late again with my report, as I was this Tuesday. Cannot get the hang of getting my act together this year, must be the cold my youngest grandson gave us the weekend before Christmas! I know that I am not alone here but hopefully things will get back to a normality soon.

Well having said that Tuesday was like a Spring day, mild, still and occasionally sunny when that cosmic observer was not obscured by the smoke and flames rising upward from the valley floor as more gorse, blackthorn and broom were added to the pyre of 2012. Fire raising was the most popular job of the day but quite a lot of post festivity energy was unleashed on dragging material to the fire from where it was stacked before or had been newly cut on top of the ridge to create a cleared space along the perimeter barbed wire fence by the furious hacking and sawing brigade.

The highlights of the day, apart from the appeasing of the ancient fire gods, was the cutting of Jim's New Year 2013 cake, complete with decoration and celebratory squib, various pieces of Stollen cake from Maryla (homemade) and me (Mr Tesco) and of course yet more vanilla and sultana buns from Mr W. Add to this Mr B's Bambi hotpot and Audrey's badger sponge and custard. We are clearly set up for the rest of this week and so should be fighting fit for the next GST extravaganza wherever it may be.

Very little wildlife about, some nice lichen of course and the odd bit of fungi, oh and some mysterious holes clearly made by some wee beastie. Answers on the hole mystery gratefully received please. My guess is some form of dung beetle?

All the best for 2013.

My new hero Nancy Reed, our WLT Reserves Manager in Beds said

"Yes, they are made by a dung beetle, the minotaur beetle, Typhaeus typhaeus. The habitat is ideal, they prefer sandy heath-land type soils, and are fairly common on Cooper’s Hill. They’re fairly unusual among the British dung beetles as they’re very active for most of the year, including through the winter. They’re also one of the few of the British dung beetle fauna to roll balls of dung – like you so often see on wildlife films (most British species live within the dung itself, including breeding) – but they cheat and use ready made balls in the form of rabbit droppings."

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to the task at Sandy Smith yesterday; fortunately the weather was better than I had seen forecast!

It was a good task; it was nice to see so many of the tree we planted last year surviving and also to see more trees planted to reinforce them. The ditching crew also did a good job and Malcolm demonstrated that a little mud and water can go a long way!

There will be NO TASK next week because of Easter. After that normal service will be resumed with the ‘tartan mowing’ task at Maulden Heath on Tuesday 10th April; meet at the Picnic Area at 10am.

Have a nice Easter!

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Malcolm J Willis

13:09 (11 minutes ago)

to Andrew, David, Wendy, daveathaynes, David, James, Steve, peter.staffert., Erika, Tim, dewinterann1, bazbreed, colinatkins23, DAVID, hgebler, janebreed, John, me, Maryla, Roger, Ros, grahamyoung1942, Tim.Chamen

So as we gathered together for morning prayers little did we expect the bombshell that was about to shatter our dreams and aspirations. Mr. T. spared nothing in blatantly announcing that we were only to work until lunchtime! This was to get us acclimatised to not working at all next week. Well, the little group of Dave’s cuddled together whimpering, holding hands, their little knees and chins quivering in the wind. Couldn’t we stay just a bit after lunch if we promised to be good and do what we were told. ‘No’ came the stern reply in Mr. T’s eyes. We could tidy up the two tree enclosures, plant another 20 trees, a few of us could play in the mud but then we would have to leave.

So we trudged off to woods. Mr. T’s heart softened a little and he let us form a ‘bucket line’ to take water from the ditch and fill a couple of large plastic Trugs so we could water in the 25 trees we were to plant. So we all got a chance to play in the water.

Three of us went off to clear another ditch of obstructions and see who could get the muddiest while the remainder cleared away the undergrowth that was overgrowing the fences and plant 15 trees in one and the remaining 15 in the other.

And so by lunchtime all 40 trees were planted and it was time to leave. The Moffatt tried to do a runner, taking a hand saw and disappearing along the bank in search of offending tree roots to remove but eventually he was called to heel. Mr. T. finally took pity on us and allowed us to take home a few logs to play with over the Easter break.

Many thanks to all who came, hope you get over the withdrawal symptoms and see you in two weeks time for some tartan mowing - och aye the g’nu.

And yes, Jackie did make me strip off on the patio before putting my clothes in the washing machine and hosing me down!

Malcolm

Admirable summary Mr W and cakes too were more than admirable even though I restrained myself from partaking in the fruit cake. (Mr T's donuts were also highly desirable) Hope you are feeling better and will soon regain your country seat.

It was good to have the great WC back with us again and Dave of the Arctic Lowe back from his Norwegian Saga.

Snaps are at usual place. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/ and start at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26181942417/ and left click all way to www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/40344026944/

See you on 10th April for Tartan Mowing.

Cheers

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

On Thu, Mar 1, 2018 at 5:40 PM Barry Breed wrote:

Thank you John,

Some cracking photos, showing 4 seasons in a single day.

Also....What a hardy bunch?....drinking tea and eating buns in the snow.

Also raises lots of questions , such as what was our Boss Tim contemplating as he sat alone gazing at the fire, Just how many bananas did Andy have, what was in Mike's bag, What was in Jim's yoghurt[?] pot, and was Dave Clarke frozen to the spot given his position In 3 photos was the same?

We can all look forward to a repeat next Tuesday,

Respect,

Barry.

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

100 x 70 cm, stencil and acrylic on canvas. sold

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Date:Jan 15 2014, 10:51 AM

Subject:

RE: A Right Royal Do!

Show full header

Dear All

Thank you your Majesty and loyal subjects. This speedy correspondence has saved me a lot of palava etc so I shall just say my snaps are up on flickr now at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/.

I should like to say that we missed TWF all day (yes we did) but cold 90s humour might here say "but I couldn't" just for a snigger. I should also like to say thank you to:

Maryla for her Sandy Smith Mud Pies

Liz M for her wonderful shortcake biscuits (the choc chip ones were particularly good :))

Malcolm X for his fruit and vanilla buns, they were very very tasty.

Whoever brought the Jaffa Cakes

To you all for your laughs and banter.

Dave Lowe for his folk and Beetles songs.

For those who wondered why I had stopped by the road side on my way home see the first snap.

Cheers

JP

Now this is what makes Tuesdays such fun and keeps me nearly sane – you should see me when I’m really balmy! Very many apologies for the lack of cake – I will try hardy next time (depending on the day and the venue!).

Thanks for all the grovelling and the wonderful singing. Could you just shorten my name to She as long as I promise not to do an “Ursula Undress” and wear a chamois leather. Thanks also for the decent weather, not that it was cold where I was standing!

I can report that I was at the Rufus Centre this afternoon and there was JB, Audrey and their lovely daughter. JB allowed me to feel his new pulse and I can recommend it as a strange experience and I think he’s got a battery somewhere that gives electric twitches.

Bon voyage to the Breeds who will be sadly missed for a while. See the rest of you somewhere in the wilds of Bedfordshire and hopefully next Tuesday.

Thanks Mr. Kippling – your writing talents are beyond compare and your cakes are pretty wonderful too. Tally Ho! She

From: Steve Squire [mailto:Steve.Squire@greensandtrust.org]

Sent: 14 January 2014 21:36

To: Malcolm Willis; Tim Spencer; bazbreed@hotmail.com; 'Colin Atkins'; 'Dave Clarke'; 'David Moffatt'; 'James Miller'; 'Jane Breed'; 'John Buxton'; 'John Pitts'; 'Kelvin Horton'; 'Malcolm Willis'; 'Marie Mead'; 'Maryla Carter'; 'Peter Stafferton'; 'Roger Christopher'; 'Ros Blevins'; 'Steve Jones'; Sue Raven; 'Tim Chamen'; wendy.copper@virginmedia.com

Cc: She who must be obeyed

Subject: RE: A Right Royal Do!

Good to see you now have an official email Sue .

Well done Malcolm for making me laugh , very good thank you and to Jock with hot bum in fire.

And thank you all too for working so hard with or without Royal Cake!

Regards

Steve

From: Malcolm Willis [malcolmJwillis@btinternet.com]

Sent: 14 January 2014 21:13

To: Tim Spencer; bazbreed@hotmail.com; 'Colin Atkins'; 'Dave Clarke'; 'David Moffatt'; 'James Miller'; 'Jane Breed'; 'John Buxton'; 'John Pitts'; 'Kelvin Horton'; 'Malcolm Willis'; 'Marie Mead'; 'Maryla Carter'; 'Peter Stafferton'; 'Roger Christopher'; 'Ros Blevins'; 'Steve Jones'; Steve Squire; Sue Raven; 'Tim Chamen'; wendy.copper@virginmedia.com

Cc: She who must be obeyed

Subject: A Right Royal Do!

The stately limousine sailed into sight like a swan upon an enchanted lake. The blue eye that is heaven became bedazzled by the occasion, even the golden beams of universal eternity dipped in homage. The line of voles, once ordinary looking, became unworthy in the instant. The conveyance glided to a halt. The door opened. Hearts that only seconds ago had been pounding chests for freedom were now in suspended animation and inexplicably in mouths agog in anticipation. And then there she was. Serenely climbing down the stepladders (which had been thoughtfully placed out of view of the cameras), she emerged onto the immediately hallowed turf of SSNR [By Appointment to Her Right Royaltiness the Lady Youthfulness].

The appointed Dave stepped forward and humbled himself. An unfortunate occurrence given the magnitude of the occasion. The reserve Dave stepped into the breach. Another unfortunate occurrence! Finally the ‘if all else fails’ Dave came to the rescue.

Bowing so low it made his eyes water he addressed her Supreme Being: “Your Majestyness, if I may be so humbly bold as to..”

Her ladyship interrupted as only one of noble birth can: “Are you a Dimbleby Dave?”

‘If all else fails’ Dave: “Err no?”

Her Exquisiteness: “Then go away.” The nobility of the extended hand flutter in Dave’s direction and immediately he was dispatched as like a game bird on the 1st September.

Her Exquisite Ladyshipness: “My husband and I..” A half turn to the limo revealed a slight glitch. “Oh bother, I must have left him somewhere again. Never mind, I shall continue. Myself and I remember only too vividly the diem horribilis that was last week. But we must move on.”

So saying Her Supremeliness moved on proffering dainty dexterous digits for the gathered ensemble to pucker up their trembling lips to.

Her Regality: “Oh I say what an obnoxious hound.”

Several male voles looked even further ashamed and took several steps back towards oblivion.

Her Lady Regal Exquisiteness: “I was referring to the dog.”

The males voles teetered on the edge of the abyss that is ordinariness. One brave soul remarked: “That is Jock, a rescued dog, he was found in a large, handbag, with handles. He was probably brought up in it.”

Her Lady Ladyness:“ I must confess that I feel somewhat bewildered by what you have just told me. To be born, or at any rate bred in a handbag, whether it have handles or not, seems to me to display a contempt for the ordinary decencies of family life which reminds one of the worst excesses of the French revolution, and I presume you know what that unfortunate movement led to?

The voles shook their heads, a few too vigorously causing them to fall off!

Brave Soul: “ Err yessum your womanliness. We believe he lost his parents and so we’ve adopted him like.”

Her Lady Ladyshipness: “To lose one parent, my good man, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.”

Little old lady with straw sticking out from under one arm (One Arm!!!!): He’s only being truthful you’re Omnipotence. He’s very earnest so he is and that’s what makes him so highly regarded by us all. ” Having said all this the little old lady retired to lie down until lunchtime.

Lady Youthfulness: “Well I suppose that’s the importance of being earnest.”

[I bet that’s made Oscar wild!]

Little old lady with straw sticking out from under one arm (One Arm!!!!): “Who’s Oscar?”

So many congratulation to Lady Sue on yet another birthday without a cake big enough to hold all the candles.

No doubt Mr Pitts will shortly be circulating a stunning array of pics so all who weren’t there today will see what the rest of us were up to. Basically following the Squire around, picking up loads of cut reeds (or in a little old lady’s case an odd bunch here and there!); carting them off to be burnt; telling the Squire not to go in the boggy bit; pulling the Squire out of the boggy bit!; showing the Squire were to cut next; sending out explorers to find where the Squire went!; telling the Squire it’s time to stop cutting; retelling the Squire it’s time to stop cutting; telling the local warden to stop telling the Squire to keep cutting!; getting bored of feeding the fire while the mound of cut reeds keeps growing; setting fire to the mound of cut reeds and blaming it on the person furthest away (Colin); eating muffins; eating biscuits (thanks Lillybeth); eating chocolate cake off the ground (thanks Maryla!); eating Jaffa cakes; moaning that there is no pudding!; moaning that Her Ladyship didn’t bring a birthday cake! and generally having fun.

Thanks to everyone who left early and didn’t stay to watch Jock walk across the ash (several times), try to make a ‘nest’ in the hot ash! (he dashed out pretty quick) and finally lie down in the ash!!!

Malcolm.

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Excellent Soulful Folk album.

1972 Polish pressing on Pronit label.

jahr ~ 1970

Set Tatry Polskie & Foto-Archiw www.flickr.com/photos/arjuna/sets/72157594154930831/

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP

Date:Jan 15 2014, 10:51 AM

Subject:

RE: A Right Royal Do!

Show full header

Dear All

Thank you your Majesty and loyal subjects. This speedy correspondence has saved me a lot of palava etc so I shall just say my snaps are up on flickr now at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/.

I should like to say that we missed TWF all day (yes we did) but cold 90s humour might here say "but I couldn't" just for a snigger. I should also like to say thank you to:

Maryla for her Sandy Smith Mud Pies

Liz M for her wonderful shortcake biscuits (the choc chip ones were particularly good :))

Malcolm X for his fruit and vanilla buns, they were very very tasty.

Whoever brought the Jaffa Cakes

To you all for your laughs and banter.

Dave Lowe for his folk and Beetles songs.

For those who wondered why I had stopped by the road side on my way home see the first snap.

Cheers

JP

Now this is what makes Tuesdays such fun and keeps me nearly sane – you should see me when I’m really balmy! Very many apologies for the lack of cake – I will try hardy next time (depending on the day and the venue!).

Thanks for all the grovelling and the wonderful singing. Could you just shorten my name to She as long as I promise not to do an “Ursula Undress” and wear a chamois leather. Thanks also for the decent weather, not that it was cold where I was standing!

I can report that I was at the Rufus Centre this afternoon and there was JB, Audrey and their lovely daughter. JB allowed me to feel his new pulse and I can recommend it as a strange experience and I think he’s got a battery somewhere that gives electric twitches.

Bon voyage to the Breeds who will be sadly missed for a while. See the rest of you somewhere in the wilds of Bedfordshire and hopefully next Tuesday.

Thanks Mr. Kippling – your writing talents are beyond compare and your cakes are pretty wonderful too. Tally Ho! She

From: Steve Squire [mailto:Steve.Squire@greensandtrust.org]

Sent: 14 January 2014 21:36

To: Malcolm Willis; Tim Spencer; bazbreed@hotmail.com; 'Colin Atkins'; 'Dave Clarke'; 'David Moffatt'; 'James Miller'; 'Jane Breed'; 'John Buxton'; 'John Pitts'; 'Kelvin Horton'; 'Malcolm Willis'; 'Marie Mead'; 'Maryla Carter'; 'Peter Stafferton'; 'Roger Christopher'; 'Ros Blevins'; 'Steve Jones'; Sue Raven; 'Tim Chamen'; wendy.copper@virginmedia.com

Cc: She who must be obeyed

Subject: RE: A Right Royal Do!

Good to see you now have an official email Sue .

Well done Malcolm for making me laugh , very good thank you and to Jock with hot bum in fire.

And thank you all too for working so hard with or without Royal Cake!

Regards

Steve

From: Malcolm Willis [malcolmJwillis@btinternet.com]

Sent: 14 January 2014 21:13

To: Tim Spencer; bazbreed@hotmail.com; 'Colin Atkins'; 'Dave Clarke'; 'David Moffatt'; 'James Miller'; 'Jane Breed'; 'John Buxton'; 'John Pitts'; 'Kelvin Horton'; 'Malcolm Willis'; 'Marie Mead'; 'Maryla Carter'; 'Peter Stafferton'; 'Roger Christopher'; 'Ros Blevins'; 'Steve Jones'; Steve Squire; Sue Raven; 'Tim Chamen'; wendy.copper@virginmedia.com

Cc: She who must be obeyed

Subject: A Right Royal Do!

The stately limousine sailed into sight like a swan upon an enchanted lake. The blue eye that is heaven became bedazzled by the occasion, even the golden beams of universal eternity dipped in homage. The line of voles, once ordinary looking, became unworthy in the instant. The conveyance glided to a halt. The door opened. Hearts that only seconds ago had been pounding chests for freedom were now in suspended animation and inexplicably in mouths agog in anticipation. And then there she was. Serenely climbing down the stepladders (which had been thoughtfully placed out of view of the cameras), she emerged onto the immediately hallowed turf of SSNR [By Appointment to Her Right Royaltiness the Lady Youthfulness].

The appointed Dave stepped forward and humbled himself. An unfortunate occurrence given the magnitude of the occasion. The reserve Dave stepped into the breach. Another unfortunate occurrence! Finally the ‘if all else fails’ Dave came to the rescue.

Bowing so low it made his eyes water he addressed her Supreme Being: “Your Majestyness, if I may be so humbly bold as to..”

Her ladyship interrupted as only one of noble birth can: “Are you a Dimbleby Dave?”

‘If all else fails’ Dave: “Err no?”

Her Exquisiteness: “Then go away.” The nobility of the extended hand flutter in Dave’s direction and immediately he was dispatched as like a game bird on the 1st September.

Her Exquisite Ladyshipness: “My husband and I..” A half turn to the limo revealed a slight glitch. “Oh bother, I must have left him somewhere again. Never mind, I shall continue. Myself and I remember only too vividly the diem horribilis that was last week. But we must move on.”

So saying Her Supremeliness moved on proffering dainty dexterous digits for the gathered ensemble to pucker up their trembling lips to.

Her Regality: “Oh I say what an obnoxious hound.”

Several male voles looked even further ashamed and took several steps back towards oblivion.

Her Lady Regal Exquisiteness: “I was referring to the dog.”

The males voles teetered on the edge of the abyss that is ordinariness. One brave soul remarked: “That is Jock, a rescued dog, he was found in a large, handbag, with handles. He was probably brought up in it.”

Her Lady Ladyness:“ I must confess that I feel somewhat bewildered by what you have just told me. To be born, or at any rate bred in a handbag, whether it have handles or not, seems to me to display a contempt for the ordinary decencies of family life which reminds one of the worst excesses of the French revolution, and I presume you know what that unfortunate movement led to?

The voles shook their heads, a few too vigorously causing them to fall off!

Brave Soul: “ Err yessum your womanliness. We believe he lost his parents and so we’ve adopted him like.”

Her Lady Ladyshipness: “To lose one parent, my good man, may be regarded as a misfortune; to lose both looks like carelessness.”

Little old lady with straw sticking out from under one arm (One Arm!!!!): He’s only being truthful you’re Omnipotence. He’s very earnest so he is and that’s what makes him so highly regarded by us all. ” Having said all this the little old lady retired to lie down until lunchtime.

Lady Youthfulness: “Well I suppose that’s the importance of being earnest.”

[I bet that’s made Oscar wild!]

Little old lady with straw sticking out from under one arm (One Arm!!!!): “Who’s Oscar?”

So many congratulation to Lady Sue on yet another birthday without a cake big enough to hold all the candles.

No doubt Mr Pitts will shortly be circulating a stunning array of pics so all who weren’t there today will see what the rest of us were up to. Basically following the Squire around, picking up loads of cut reeds (or in a little old lady’s case an odd bunch here and there!); carting them off to be burnt; telling the Squire not to go in the boggy bit; pulling the Squire out of the boggy bit!; showing the Squire were to cut next; sending out explorers to find where the Squire went!; telling the Squire it’s time to stop cutting; retelling the Squire it’s time to stop cutting; telling the local warden to stop telling the Squire to keep cutting!; getting bored of feeding the fire while the mound of cut reeds keeps growing; setting fire to the mound of cut reeds and blaming it on the person furthest away (Colin); eating muffins; eating biscuits (thanks Lillybeth); eating chocolate cake off the ground (thanks Maryla!); eating Jaffa cakes; moaning that there is no pudding!; moaning that Her Ladyship didn’t bring a birthday cake! and generally having fun.

Thanks to everyone who left early and didn’t stay to watch Jock walk across the ash (several times), try to make a ‘nest’ in the hot ash! (he dashed out pretty quick) and finally lie down in the ash!!!

Malcolm.

GST day mowing & raking A6 verge near WWC 1/9/2015 TL0739

Hi all

In case you have not checked my A6 snaps are up on flickr at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/20894792380/in/datetaken/ clicking on rh arrow to move

backawrds from 2.30pm to start. If you hit the lh arrow you will find the bugs etc that I managed to find between first tea and lunch call.

Well what a day after a torrential downpour before the 10am meeting time the sun blew the grey cold clouds away and allowed us to enjoy this task. At the start the

grass and all those wild flowers were standing upright and cheerful but Tim was soon laying it down for us to gather up with rakes and hoist up over the steep terraces

into the hedgeline. This was very tricky task, Tim finding holding the mower on line along those steep banks very tricky and muscle aching. I think Dave the Clarke

and Steve Jones on the brush-cutters also will have some stiff muscles for the same reason. www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/21090721171/in/datetaken/

After many years mowing this site i hss been turned into a much improved piece of grassland, all those efforts have been rewarded. One day I shall remember to do a bug check there before it all gets cut.

We were again lucky to have Mr Buxton and his silver tea service (thank you John) and Tim provided donuts in all the colours and falvours we like (custard donuts

are proving a big favourite for Voles). It is funny how teacall brings visitors out of the bushes and today was no exception with the appearance of Maryla with grand-

children Zara and Charly. Gosh don't they grow so fast. Zara is a fine bright lass and it is great to find a child who has an enquiring and interested mind.

Those Voles who were absent will be pleased to learn that JSB has really shaped up and is looking really good. In fact we have a hrad job keeping him from picking

up a strimmer. Next week may see us holding him back from all that mud and reedmace at DENR :0

I hope you like "Snow White & the 6 dwarves" photo. They looked so content sat on their magic bank stuffing their faces

etc.https://www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/20461817953/in/datetaken/

Well the day went really well. I think you will all agree the Voles did a grand job, to budget and ahead of target hour.

See you next week?

Cheers

JP

Despite the really stormy grey but mild day there was an amazing turnout with 20+ Voles on parade at Ruxox for the regular task of cutting the vegetation at this famous Bedfordshire landmark heritage site.

When I arrived, a bit late as usual, a medieval style scene was before me, a long line of rakers filled the Ruxox ditch as far as the eye could see while the distant chug chug of the jolly blue mower could be heard as Dave the Moffat (in charge for the day) negotiated the banking. It always amazes me how quickly a job gets done by the Voles. I know that we were only cutting one side of ditch but in the "good old days" in the distant past we were lucky to do half of the ditch in a whole day. On this occasion we were all done by before noon and were able to tranship to Steppingly.

First tea call was taken on time, despite the lack of a tea pot, and Malcolm's special spicy bread pudding vanished very quickly.

Here at Ruxox we found a pair of medium sized Common Toads and watched a love triangle of Skylarks disputing territory in the adjoining field. Near the entrance to the farm there were several large flocks of Starlings who seemed to be passing through. In the same horse field we noted several pumpkin size puffballs ( I had thought they were pumpkins!)

At Steppingly we parked under a Horse-chestnut Tree and there were soon gathering in two large bags of conkers. These will be planted at Sandy Smith near the base fence as part of the plan to put in many thousand trees. At the same time "Mower" Moffat was off again like a F1 rocket and it was not long before the fairly large patch of meadow that remained uncut was lying flat ready for raking. We had a short interruption for lunch but very soon afterwards the second task of the day was completed and the Voles dispersed again. Fortuitously we were able to collect a few apples. During the final minutes of raking I noticed a little ball of grass and picking it up noticed a tiny furry little vole-like creature nestling in it and then several more near the nest place. Richard Laurence tells me these "voles" were in fact Wood Mice! We placed the nest back with occupants and hope there is a happy ending.

Thanks go again to TWF for another curry hotpot and also to Audrey for delivering a hot apple and pumpkin pie.

GST Voles Day at Maulden Roundhouse Field 27/2/2018 TL0638 & specifically TL069384

Hi All,

Thanks to those who came down to Maulden Heath for the task today - it was certainly a cool one!

Despite the cold we achieved everything that I had hoped to and were able to beat an early retreat once the snow started.

Next week’s task is at Ampthill Park; meet in the West Car Park at 10am.

Thanks,

Tim

Tim Spencer

Countryside Ranger

The Greensand Trust

Hail Tim & Fellow Voles & Supporters

On Tuesday and in light of the weather prognosis I decided to risk yet another "late on parade" reprimand by starting at Maulden Church and enjoy a amble to the Roundhouse field where I found a merry band of Voles cutting Blackthorn regrowth on the path at the NE corner. In the distance I could hear mechanical noise and see wisps of smoke from a nascent bonfire. The Voles had already fully loaded a tarp ready to drag to the fire but I could get no willing helpers to assist me in that job so I sulked off to the other activities and helped Big Jim tidy away from the fence line a big pile of rotting pine trunks so that there was access for the Land Rover fencing team. There were also several newly felled conifers to dismember and clear away to the fire. Away round the rim of the field there were more felled trees of Oak and a Cherry and all through the day through blizzard and sunshine Voles staggered back and fro to the central fire and Jane's small team of stokers.

Obviously it was not just hard graft all day and in addition to the welcome jam and custard donuts we had the delightful jam scones lovingly prepared by Helen's Brownies to fend off the arctic conditions. with our first T Up call.

It was good to have with us our old mate Maryla for the morning and it was good to catch up.

Lunch break arrived just as the sky darkened and the the world resumed blizzard conditions from the gloom and snowflakes appeared an almost hysterical Erika (and Carolyn?) who was having the most fun ever almost cavorting around the bonfire and through snow flakes like something from "The Scottish Play". For some reason E wanted photographic evidence of the Voles madness and I hope we shall see our happy band on a screen near you very soon.

Just as quickly as the blizzard came the sky changed to a bright azure blue decorated with puffy nimbus but having almost finished most of the tasks set for the day orders were given to retreat and so I staggered my way back to Maulden Church past frozen ponds and paths feeling happy but properly exercised by saw, lopper and tarp, hopefully not painfully so.

See you next week and hopefully you will enjoy some of my snaps as usual at www.flickr.com/photos/pitzys_pyx/26651616618/in/datetaken/ and left clicks from there.

JP