Liz and I are guardians of about 15 acres of land up on the valley side. Much of this special place we leave undisturbed for nature to return naturally. There are a few acres of self-seeded, gradually spreading thornland, including about 100 hawthorn trees along with old hollies and dense gorse and bramble. All providing vital home and food for many creatures. For winter visitors too, including flocks of fieldfare and redwing who stay for weeks to gorge on the tens of thousands of berries.