Craters

 

The forest in pocked with craters from the second world war, dozens of them. Some from deliberate Luftwaffe attacks, or dumping their munitions before the return trip across the channel; others were self inflicted in pursuit of victory. Near Godshill in the north of the forest is the site of a World War Two test range, the Ashley Range. They tested all sorts up here, both defensive and offensive; from air raid shelters and aircraft pens to Tall Boy and Grand Slam, the earthquake bombs whose craters are still visible adjacent to the mock submarine pen atop Hampton Ridge. They even tested 'Highball' a version of the Bouncing Bomb here. If you're into World War Two sites, it's a place worth exploring.

Levellers - Southampton Guildhall

 

This evening watching the levellers it's apparent that their edge has not been dulled by the years, they remain as sharp and committed as ever they've been. Some 40 years in the music industry have not swayed their ethics, their stance, nor the grind of modernity diminished their energy. In 40 years they've amassed a  library of notable albums packed with consistently solid tracks, each relevant to its' time. They’re a band that clearly care about their music, consummate performers never failing to deliver the audience a memorable evening of well honed artistry.  Tonight they kept that commitment to excellence with a stunning performance. It’s been 30 years since the release of Zeitgeist, an album containing some of their best loved tracks, tonights' set incorporated the entire album, plus a smattering a fan favourites from across the bands' expansive repertoire. A wonderful evening was had by all; the band appeared to be having fun, the audience certainly were. Great show, great sound, a great evening all round. 

Grace Petrie - Southampton Guildhall

This evening we found ourselves in Southampton, off to see the mighty Levellers. Their support, folky-protrest-rock type Grace Petrie. I hadn’t heard of Grace before this evening, although what I heard tonight I really enjoyed. She had to feel of an upgraded Billy Bragg, better vocally and lyrically; Grace has presence and warmth too. Her songs have energy, and powerful lyrics in the tradition of protest folk though brought modern. She appears at ease on stage, natural, and a sense of humour too, so easily lost in modernity. Grace engaged and involved the audience, it was a lovely experience. She said her job was to warm up the crowd for the levellers, and she did just that, and did it with gusto. If you get an opportunity to see her, take it.

Notable tree

I've always loved this wildly spreading oak on the edge of Sloden; with it's flamboyant animalistic characteristics it really makes its' presence felt. Definitely one of the forests notable oaks. You can't help but wonder how many other travellers have marvelled as they've passed.

Forest scene

The light through the stands this morning was special.

Dockens Water

 

Dockens Water, flowing again after its' long summer hiatus.

Pigs

A drift of pigs at pannage crowd the verge close to the ford at Moyles Court. A dozen or so of them, displaying a broad range of colour and pattern, busy hoovering up the fruits of the oak, they're being well fed this year. Always lovely to see them.

Shroom

One mushroom that's been particularly thin on the ground this year (at least about my roams) has been the Liberty Cap (Psilocybe semilanceata), you get years like that, the conditions just haven't been right. Though I feel inconsistency is becoming the norm, a consequence of the seasons slipping out of phase to to climatic change maybe. 

Wise words

Simple lyrics, two lines, stoic in tone.