Autumn Nature Walk

By Pat Ruaune

The rain held off, and that is a bonus to any event.

Anne Litherland, our Reddish Vale Warden conducted a valuable experience for the Nature Lovers who slowly circled the ponds and then spent some time in the community garden. We learned to identify trees and shrubs by their berries, leaves and bark.

The children in the group found out which berries were edible and which smelled of sweaty socks. We found fungi and learned that any of the so-called edible fungi could be poisonous to one person and leave another unaffected. The lesson is: unless you are sure, go to the supermarket! We have a little nut tree in the Vale that I have passed every day without knowing that it is a Hazel.

The children loved the Himalayan Balsam because the

seedpod explodes when touched. this does not amuse the conservationists, however, because it can take over an area and stop native plants from growing. Earlier in the year, a task day was held in the hope that local people would help to clear a large enough area to halt its progress.

Not enough people realised what a threat this plant is to the wildflower population even though almost everyone would like to see wildflower meadows.

We must remember that for next year. I certainly will. I walked around with John, who works very hard with the wardens and he explained some of the snippets that I had missed. If you would like to get even more joy from your visits to the Vale I can recommend the guided tours. For me it was like walking around my own home and being shown hidden jewels and heirlooms that I have carelessly ignored.