Last #IronworksMeadow Maldon, work party until autumn today under misty, leaden skies but blossom everywhere and a few flowers emerging and much bird song. Plenty done thanks to c20 volunteers - mere clearance, bramble & blackthorn removal, litter picking, construction of sow-thistle enclosure etc.
Rainbow over Ironworks Meadow NR
Mundon St Mary’s Old Church with one of the remaining ancient oaks nearby
Sometimes known as the ‘Petrified Forest’ this is actually a stand of ancient oaks that have died off in recent decades - there were trees present here back in 12th century or so. These are said have been killed off by saltwater following sea water inundation but given they are at one of the higher points in the immediate area (6-7m), I cannot see that this is the cause although what is the reason(s), I do not know. At least one is still alive and putting out growth - perhaps some acorns should be collected?
Flowering Cherry doing what the name suggest - flowering!
A few photos from around the Maldon patch this week. #Mundon #ironworksmeadow
