Author: Louise Hunter

A willing bunch of parishioners have signed up to complete a 200km walk during the 6 weeks of Lent. Some are walking alone, in families or in social groups sharing the miles. The photos below show some of us in action. It’s been a nice opportunity to take stock of the beautiful world around us and to enjoy some canine company, some friendly chats and to embrace the weather – rain, wind and shine! We are delighted to say that, even at the halfway point, we have already raised almost £2000 and are top of the UK leaderboard – this money will go a long way towards helping those overseas who are supported by Sciaf to achieve their goals and dreams. 

Many thanks to Allison, our Community Champion from Tesco, who has given us this “trolley-full” donation for our Giving Tree appeal. She also provided gingerbread men for the children taking part in the “alternative nativity play” and the carol service! I think she’s not only the community champion but a champion in general 🙂 

It’s time to admit to feeling that “chill in the air” as the days grow shorter. We know the autumn and winter are setting in, not just because “Strictly” has returned to our televisions but because we are seeing less of the summer wildlife. 

However, they need our help just as much as they did in the summer when we planted and nurtured our fruits, flowers and veg.  Even if we don’t have a garden, it might be possible to do just one thing which makes a difference. 

Here are some ways we can support them. 

• There are plants flowering into autumn such as dahlias, asters and anemones which continue to feed those bees trying to make it through the winter 
• Get prepped for next year by planting bulbs such as crocus, daffodils and snowdrops for flowers as early as February – even planting just one container as a “bulb lasagne”!
• Gather up any fallen leaves but don’t bin them! Pile them up in a corner for wildlife to cosy in. When the warmer weather returns this pile will turn into “gardeners gold” – a rich compost which is great for adding to your soil
• Leave seed heads such as sunflowers, rudbeckia, poppies and eryngiums for birds to feed on and for insects to hide amongst and lay their eggs (don’t say “eughhh” – we need them!)
• Don’t be tempted to tidy up the garden too much as any dying plant life provides shelter for many little guys out there in the cold 
• Put up bird boxes and bug hotels (we don’t have to wait until Spring)
• Provide food and water for birds and, if you’re lucky enough to see any hedgehogs, they apparently enjoy a wee bowl of cat or dog food!