The cold days and plentiful snow that defined last year’s winter was nothing like the winter that we are now just emerging from. Those of us who are fortunate to have good colour vision are enjoying a feast of colour as all the plants, birds (and even butterflies!) announce the early arrival of Spring; and we’ve been treated to many blue skies too .... wonderful!

What a summer it was! We hope that you have all enjoyed the warm (or hot?), dry days and beautiful evenings. For some people the extra daylight has enabled them to see better, which for them was a blessing. But we spare a thought for those people who found the bright sunlight particularly disabling; for them the autumn clouds may be a welcome relief.