Encouraged by the optimistic weather forecast, 27 members assembled at the beautiful coniferous and deciduous Stockhill Woods high up on the Mendips, planted on the site of bumps and rocky outcrops left after centuries of lead mining. As heavy showers commenced from the start Graham cut everyone’s losses and changed plan to adopt the shorter circular route through the woodland. Few birds were spotted initially apart from a Treecreeper, and several Woodpigeons and Magpies. All gathered in the car park again and as the rain dried up, we set off across the moors past the head high reed beds of Priddy Ponds, with a Buzzard overhead. The open heathland and water habitats provided far more interest as the sun came out. Graham ploughed on in search of a little used activity centre which had outside tables, where two birthdays were celebrated! On the walk back we were rewarded by a family of four Stonechats in a Hawthorn tree. Other species included in the list of 23 spotted overall were, Ravens, Whinchat, Goldcrest, Coal Tit and a Bullfinch. Many thanks to Graham for leading the walk. Clifford Frappell