We found this little one on the ground in front of the summer house this morning. Fortunately we managed to get him to a safe place before the boys realised what we were doing. Kept him for a couple of hours then released him at the bottom of the garden while the boys were doing lunch. He was a beautiful little thing and so calm but I really do hope we never see him again. He’s a Greater Spotted Woodpecker. Been hearing them for years. First time we’ve ever seen one this close.

The boys decided to join us for coffee this morning in some shade. None of us are used to heat like this- was 34 degrees. We were all moving around to find shaded areas in the garden.

Seconded to the unit to cover Ariel reconnaissance.

Can’t remember what we planted in this tub. For some strange reason it doesn’t look as though it’s going to grow.

Morning so far. Early sweep of the garden and boundaries. Breakfast. Quick wash then second longer patrol. Snack. Now chilling in the conservatory and waiting for lunch