The 2026 Bluebell Walk

The year of records! One weekend charity raised over £10,000. Arlington Church with their Plant Stall raised just under £10,000. The total raised by the 26 involved charities over the 38 days we were open was in excess of £109,000 — and we have now exceeded £1.2 million since 1972.

Plus, for the first time ever, we had the weather onside, as it only rained on the first day we opened!

I found it difficult to be as cheerful as the charities and weather, as for the first time in five years I was without my friend Stuart Higgins — the person I relied on, as together we quickly dealt with issues as they arose. Fortunately, Alison Bettles with her colleague Harry Heselten rose to the challenge in dealing with the major tasks that are fundamental to a successful Bluebell Walk. Alison and others that I have privately thanked ensured our charities had minimal issues, which helped them make sure our visitors had a memorable experience — so thank you all again.

The Times Sternberg Active Life Award

Not only did I have a memorable day in Downing Street, but I have also now received a cheque for £1,500. It will be put towards a permanent structure close to Beatons Wood — firstly to celebrate my 90th year, and importantly, I hope it will mark the creation of the Arlington Bluebell Charitable Trust. This is something I have wanted for the past five years, but my accountant has hesitated to ensure the finances would be viable for this long-term commitment. Will 2027 be that year!

New Book by Philippa Vine — My Seasonal Kitchen: Summer

This is the first book of a series of four, by my daughter Philippa who lives at their home, Beatons, based at Bates Green Farm. She has always been a fabulous cook, wrote a weekly cookery column for 10 years in the Farmers Weekly, and used to teach cookery — so this is a culmination of her many years’ knowledge. www.myseasonalkitchen.co.uk

Stop Press: A Golden Oriole Sighting!

From Sarah Wilesmith, who runs woodland learning groups:

’I was watching the Kingfisher at the lower pond when I heard a bird call that I didn’t recognise — something like a Blackbird, or Song Thrush, but not quite... the Merlin birdsong app suggested Golden Oriole! There was also a Jay-like "scraak" which correlated with the notes on the bird. At the edge of the wood I had a glimpse of the yellow and black bird. They are really uncommon as visitors in this area — perhaps the warm weather across Europe is extending their range. Golden Oriole — what a treasure to find.’

Where bluebells lately bowed their heads
And springtime slowly slipped away,
The foxgloves rise from leafy beds
To greet the longer, warmer day.

Tall sentinels of purple-pink,
They stand where ancient oak trees grow,
And bid the wandering bumblebee drink
Deep from their bells’ soft, dappled glow.

- Timus Kurka