Dam

Along Avon Water the natural dam of logs, fallen boughs and a myriad of woodland detritus, which began to form a couple of years ago, continues to have a dramatic effect on the surrounding woodland. Although now in several sections, spread over some 15m, it remains an effective barrier spewing some 70% of Avon Waters flow into the adjacent woodland, causing the refilling of previously abandoned water courses, as well as creation new ones. The woods are awash. The saturation and erosion caused by the flooding has weakened several trees leading to an increase in toppled trunks. The redirected water flows through ancient meanders which again criss cross the wood; the woodland here is now a mix of scoured channels and heaps of redeposited materials. There is no doubt that present meandering water course is original; this is especially noticeable with Avon Water being so unnaturally straight. The revived ancient course doesn't return to the linear Avon Water until it reaches the open area 200m down stream.

Bramshaw

Om

Graffiti........archaeology?

Is graffiti archaeology? Archaeology is the study of our pasts, our societies and cultures, explored through the analysis of our material culture and cultural landscapes. If we find rock art, cave paintings or an inscription on the base of a Samian ware vessel, we marvel, imagining the motivations and lives of those who left the mark; yet we frequently pass graffiti carved trees without register or care. These more recent inscriptions nevertheless have a story to tell.

Highland Water below Roman Bridge

Soarley Beeches

It feels more like Spring every day, the air is lighter, warm sun shines between fleeting clouds and spring flowers begin to emerge from their dark hibernation. Primrose blooms can be seen unfolding in places, weeks earlier than they should be. Soarley Beeches, a mix of ancient Beech and Oak, crowns a hillock overlooking Soarley and Blackensford Bottoms, dank wet heathland, grasses and tussocks; standing proud, it's buffeted by relentless winds and endures all the elements can throw at it, as the fallen boughs and scared trunks attest too. Still, this small stand has a special, memorable quality, an ambience that welcomes you, creating a feeling of wonder whilst you're within its shade. The majesty of these ancient giants is inspiring, uplifting, you feel their presence, this is their place and has been for hundreds of years.