Grandson James at it Again and Ben's Sixteen

 Here's another one of mighty grandson James, quarterback for Birmingham Uni., helping them to a resounding 27-6 win against Cardiff Uni.

Meanwhile, younger grandson Ben is now sixteen

Garden gets a Haircut and Thin-out

 Our policy of letting nature do its thing with the 'cultivated' parts of the gardens has worked well.  But, too well in the case of some high growing plants - brambles and young trees especially.   Autumn is time for a clear-out of those.

We are unable to tackle them ourselves so must call in some help.  Help has come form two directions - Paul and Tracey.   Paul, who we have known for years, was a teller at Settle's one-time Barclays Bank.  He is now a much happier green-fingered man.  He has set about clearing the steep slope of the southern embankment, clearing space for the wanted shrubs:

You could not even see that fence before!  The young trees and bushes are in those ton bags awaiting recycling.  Phase two is attention from qualified plantswoman Tracey.