A nearly full minibus met up with several car travellers to form a group of sixteen. Our starting point was the very pretty village of Downham, which lies just east of Clitheroe. A little stream with a beautiful stone bridge was lined by quaint little cottages with immaculate, colourful gardens. It was surprisingly cold and blustery, and the sunshine was interrupted by light showers throughout the morning. We soon left the road to follow undulating paths through fields including an old Roman road, and alongside streams. The loud song of our first willow warbler of the year alerted us to its location. There were numerous stiles to negotiate, but this was a lovely route affording stunning views of the Ribble Valley. 29 birds were recorded including buzzard, kestrel and pied wagtail and our first swallow of 2011 was spotted as we sat having lunch. We were delighted by the spring flowers. 
Lime Tree LeavesPatches of primroses gave lovely splashes of yellow, and there was a resplendent bank of purple, mostly dog violets but with a smattering of sweet violets. An impressive clump of toothwort was seen. Wild garlic was prolific, but was not yet in full flower. 50 flowering plants and 3 ferns were recorded. Towards the end of the walk we dropped down onto a country lane that headed back into the village past a lime kiln. On this lane we saw lots of goldilocks buttercups, garlic mustard and rue-leaved saxifrage. The afternoon remained dry, and we had all enjoyed the splendid display of spring flowers and the stunning landscape. Before returning to Bradford, we enjoyed refreshments in the local tea room.
Sue