Little and large Collapses!

Partial collapse of drystone wall at rear of Lodge Park

A somewhat larger collapse on a Perfect day in Nottingham

Its been a while since my last dry walling experience on Leckhampton Hill but Wednesday provided a much needed refresher in this very traditional countryside craft. Mike drove the tractor with its bucket loaded with good quality Cotswold stone while I followed in the 4x4. Having reached the worksite in a nice spot at the rear of Lodge Park the walling challenge soon became evident. No complaints about the quality of the stone available to repair the damaged wall but I was soon reminded of the challenges that drystone walling entails. After a false start, where it became necessary to undo the initial courses layed, we adopted a slightly different strategy to rebuilding the wall and this proved to be a good decision. Unfortunately time was not on our side to repair this particular gap and more visits will be needed to rebuild a number of gaps on this wall section. No bad thing, for such a rewarding and satisfying task!

After Wednesday's experience on tackling one sort of collapse Thursday provided a slightly different experience. Some days in life are good and some bad but occasionally you can get a 'perfect day'. Thursday proved to be that perfect day starting with Ollies first birthday with his mates Billy and Isla at Sheepscombe/Ebworth. After a really enjoyable walk around the woods and meadows on the Ebworth estate we ended with a much deserved lunch at the Butchers Arms Sheepscombe. Returning home to Cheltenham I was astonished to discover the amazing events that had taken place at Trent Bridge in the Ashes test. The day was completed when I took Ollie out for his evening walk and we were greeted by 3 green woodpeckers who flew over us to finally settle in the large, dead Oak tree in the nearby pasture. Here's hoping for more such days in the future!