Old timers will complain that winter’s aren’t what they used to be. Certainly the last three years have been placid weather wise and the winters benign - last winter so much so I cannot recall anything worth calling a storm. Well, this year they can relax - a traditional old style miserable wet and stormy winter is back. In between the wet and windy we have some great frosts and some good snow.

I’m back apple pruning again this year and I’ve taken to wearing mountaineering boots out on the orchard whilst pruning to keep my feet in better condition and it really works. Real winters mean much better quality snow conditions and that has been noticeable after last years thin crust and icy shell. Soft and dry powder - awesome!!

Unfortunately my current work conditions have meant far less time to get out but fortunately conditions up the hill - on our local mountain Arthur have been good since mid may giving some easy access fun. Below some winter photos.