Putting to Bed

Some good news this week, as the Brown family have received responses for the rebuilding of the roof of Betley Court from the four contractors invited to quotes. Each quote is accompanied by huge spreadsheets, and it is going to take a long, long time to wade through the detail to see who we will engage for the rebuild. Nevertheless, it feels like progress, albeit slow.

Site visit by one of the firms bidding for the rebuild of the roof at Betley Court

On Thursday (19^th November 2020), we’re joining other National Lottery Heritage Fund grant recipients, virtually, on Twitter. Its to say ‘Thank you!’ to all the players who make projects like the opening of Betley Court Gardens to the public possible - even although it hasn’t actually been possible due to Covid19 this year. Fingers crossed for next year! Look out for us using the hashtag #ThankToYou and #NationalLottery.

Our rhino, our amongst the autumn trees on the paddock

In the grounds there is very much a sense of ‘putting the garden to bed’ as the days get shorter. The light down in the dingle changes as the leaves fall and is quite ephemeral by late afternoon. The banks along Tanhouse Brook are carpeted orange by fallen beech leaves.

Our orange carpet of leaves on the upper bank of Tanhouse Brook

Devoid of leaves, trees take on sculptural silhouettes. The bark on certain trees becomes more noticeable too. There is one particular ancient sycamore that has bark that has been finely chiselled by time.

The unusual chiselled marking on this ancient sycamore

Another one, a false acacia (Robinsonia pseudoacacia) bears the gnarliest of bark as it ages. Quite striking to look at!

Gnarled bark of false acacia (Robinsonia pseudoacacia). I'm sure I can see a face in there!

The excellent leaf mould Melvyn and Shane made from last year’s leaf fall has been put to good use on the flowerbeds at the front of the house. I’ve put a decent blanket of a couple of inches over three of the beds now. Three to go, and the flowerbeds will be nicely tucked in till spring!

The good stuff! Melvyn and Shane's magical leaf mould

All best wishes

Ladybird Su