By The PondThe two sites we visited today were of equal interest but in different ways. In the morning we explored the grounds of Burnby Hall Gardens, in the afternoon we completed a linear walk along the Pocklington Canal. The gardens held the national collection of Water Lilies and in the summer sunshine they were at their best- white, pink and red.
Water Lilies The group took a leisurely stroll around the gardens visiting the Victorian gardens, Rock garden, Stumpery and Arboretum. We enjoyed lunch by the side of the lake.
In the afternoon led by Peter we walked along the Pocklington Canal, constructed between 1815-18, enjoying the flowers and grasses, butterflies, dragonflies, fish and bird life. The flowers and grasses seen (total recorded 60) included Arrowhead, Greater Willowherb, Marsh Woundwort, Yellow Water Lily, Sneezewort, Bindweed, Water Forget-me -not, Unbranched Bur-reed, Common Reed, Reed Canary Grass, Reed Sweet Grass. We were hoping for sightings of Red Eyed Damselfly but none were seen.
Pocklington canal From The Bridge However Banded Demoiselles were seen in flight also a Brown Hawker Dragonfly was photographed in breezy conditions. Butterflies seen during the day were Peacock, Red Admiral, Holly Blue, Meadow Brown and Green Veined White. Mallard and Moorhen made their appearances from time to time and a Kestrel was seen by Gillian flying overhead. Robert the fisherman brought our attention to Perch and Roach swimming under the bridge, Stuart spotted a Vole by the side of the path. The sunshine we enjoyed in the morning was replaced with cloudy conditions as the day progressed. Our group of 14 returned to the Unitarian Church stimulated and well satisfied following a good day out.
Margaret