Nostell PrioryWe had a full complement of people for our first visit to Nostell Priory. We were led by Janet and Philip. At our venue we were joined by Alan and Peter. Weather conditions were favourable - warm and cloudy. However the journey was more complex than anticipated, an alternative route was taken to avoid the congested conditions on the motorway. The day was spent exploring the parkland with woodland, lakes and meadow; visiting the gardens and enjoying refreshments in the courtyard. A variety of flowers, fungi, birds and butterflies was seen. Lunch was spent near the obelisk where Alan entertained us with a tale of his gold bullion purchase in Blackpool (ssh - highly confidential not to be passed around!!) Flowers totalled 96 species in flower and seed. 
Approaching The ObeliskMost admired were the beautiful white and fringed water lilies. Fungi species included dryad's saddle, grey smoky polypore, fairies' bonnets and pleated inkcap. Bird species were limited to 13, greenshank being the highlight species. The butterflies included meadow brown, gatekeeper, green-veined white and peacock. Moth species included agriphella tristella and China marks. The dragonflies included brown hawker, common and ruddy darter and common blue damselfly. All in all it was a pleasant and sociable day out in the South Yorkshire landscape. Thanks to Janet and Philp.Margaret