Many of our members will be aware of the development of Lyde Green across the ring road, but you may not have heard that a large piece of common land in that area has recently come under threat of ‘deregistration’. This process could eventually result on this ancient plot of land being built on. From what we have  learnt from the development of land in our area, one of the best decisions the planners ever made was to set aside an area for the park and preserve its established trees and hedgerows. I sense that our park is something truly precious to us a a community and I am confident that many of us feel the same. For that reason I offer a link here to a petition started by Beverley at the parish office, opposing this change to the status of the common land in Lyde Green. You may also like to write to commonlandcasework@pins.gsi.gov.uk detailing your comments on this proposal.

Those who have enjoyed the Wildwood series of events this year will be interested to hear about Forget Hollywood, it’s Wildwood! at Resound on Friday 30 October, 7.00 pm to 9.00 pm.  This is the final event in the Wildwood natural neighbours programme of events. The main attraction for the night will be a screening of the highly acclaimed, funny and inspiring film, Project Wild Thing. According to the Guardian: a film to ‘change your life’. This link will take you to a trailer of the film.  Naturalist and wildlife detective, Ed Drewitt will host an informal discussion after the film for an opportunity to ask questions and talk about issues raised in the film. The evening will also include a short presentation documenting Wildwood natural neighbours. Look out for yourselves starring in this one!  Finally, after their superstar appearance at The Twilight Zone event, Avon Hawk and Owl Trust will be making a special appearance. Forget Hollywood, it’s Wildwood!  is a free event. However, any donation you make toward the evening will go to Avon Hawk and Owl Trust.

Pictures this week include the park in autumn, the new herb garden in the orchard and a view of my wheelbarrow full of harvest, some of which are red grapes from the orchard, which will turn into wine to be shared!