At least the weather was proper winter weather for a few days between Xmas and New Year. A good frost (-12 C) and about 4" of snow gave us a wonderful winter landscape for 5 days before reverting back to the usual rain.

This did at least give us a chance to empty out some muck from our weeping wall pit, the first chance for about 3 months, we put about 5 tons to the acre on about 70 acres. The sheep are clearing up the last of the grass before they go off home, they have done a really good job eating off the surplus.

I have taken on a contract Rat catcher this year, he is doing a marvellous job assisting the farm cats, there seems to be no problems this year.

We broke off our Boxing day shoot for a couple of hours to go and support our local hunt, we were not on our own, it was the biggest Meet I have seen, with Kington town square packed with people. Now, I do not hunt, but hunting is an integral part of our country life and I passionately support those that do. It seems to me that a hunted fox finishes up either dead or alive, there is NEVER a wounded one. The same cannot be said for any other form of control.

I spend quite a bit of time `Picking Up` with the 2 Spaniels, this often gives me a chance to stand quietly in the woods watching the birds, I am amazed how many small birds are about this year. I was surrounded by a mass of Tits last week (long tailed, blue and marsh), they lead such busy lives!

May I wish anyone that reads this a Happy and Healthy New Year.