Less than 2 months ago the first sod was turned and in no time (10 days in fact) I had two interconnected ponds, filled, filters running and marginal plants already helping the aquatic ecosystem establish.

In a challenging garden, the modest elevation given by the earth removed provided the opportunity for a cascade from a third, small upper pool; a welcome break from the flat expanse as well as a great architectural opportunity. Everything here has to be based on the dry, Mediterranean theme; being the highest point for 20km in the prevailing south to west directions, with shallow dry and stony free-draining soil, we are also exposed to hot, dry winds and long periods without significant rain.

No surprise really that it is a VERITABLE OASIS as far as the wildlife is concerned.

My themes for the magazine articles over these summer months will frequently plot the progress of the increasing animal incursions from the surrounding land: bordered from the East round to the West by patchwork arable fields and copse woods, whilst to the north begins a wider expanse of typical ancient mixed woodland.

After the pond skaters and diving beetles, that found the pond before it had even finished filling, a Marsh Frog (maybe two, but not seen both together) was the first wild inhabitant.

So, out with the telephoto, and maybe on occasions the macro lens, lets see what my mini-rewilding project turns up………….