Not too hot, no rain, a slight breeze, perfect day for a walk, shame that only five people seemed to think so! It started very well with a Red Kite immediately above and flying so low we could see its perfect markings; a little further on and the cry of a Chaffinch, many Crows, Magpie and Pied Wagtail. Proceeding on through Velvet Bottom we detected many birds in yonder trees, which we decided were Chiffchaffs plus a couple of Goldfinches. At this point we first heard then spotted our first of today’s two Ravens, a beautiful Whitethroat, Blue Tit, Long-tailed Tit, with a few Linnets passing by along with Stonechat. Also, what was thought to be a young fledgling Buzzard flying overhead having probably just achieved its independence. Carrying on further toward the Bottom we stopped for our coffee break, hearing Wren and Robin whilst we paused. As we continued we discovered that Long Wood was still closed to walkers due to Ash Dieback; nevertheless we traipsed on uphill where a Bullfinch was heard. Crossing a field towards the long road which would eventually take us back to the car park, we spied House Sparrow, Jackdaw, Woodpigeon, Herring Gull, plus a solitary House Martin, and many Swallows were also seen throughout the walk. Just as we returned we had a lovely view of our first Great Spotted Woodpecker of the day. (Thanks to Graham for leading.) Graham Blacker