The clearing of the pine paddock continues a pace. It is a demanding task for the woodman, who works meticulously, calculating the angle of fall for each tree, his priority is to avoid the track and fragile over-head lines. The farm at the brow of the hill relies on these out-modded lines for communication with the outside world. In the event of a cold snap, snow and ice often render the track impassable save for the ancient Massey Ferguson and the Defender!
I learned today that the plan is to allow the land re-generate naturally. Within a couple of years we can expect a profusion of buddlea and a smattering of ash saplings. What a wonderful prospect, a morning stroll in the company of butterflies.
