As we move from spring into summer, the churchyard has burst into bloom. The grass was left uncut for No Mow May to improve the biodiversity by providing a vital source of nectar for bees and other insects. We have seen a greater variety of flowers this year which, after the cold spring, have opened at once, spreading colour throughout the churchyard. Come with us on a vibrant, yet peaceful walk this month as we finally enjoy a bit of sunshine!

The path along the west side of the church is home to a border of creeping buttercups. Venture a little further and you’ll find Welsh poppies thriving in a shady position under the trees.

Moving onto bluebells now; these ones (seen above) have drooping flowers, indicating that they are native English bluebells rather than the introduced Spanish variety.

A damp area rich in leaf mould may sound unappealing, but this is home to common bistort. Traditionally, in certain Northern districts, the young leaves were cooked with nettles and pearl barley to make Easter Ledger Pudding. This would be served with a fried egg and, if you were lucky, bacon.

Next on our wildflower walk is wood forget-me-not.  According to Leif Bersweden, ‘The yellow ring at the flower’s centre fades to white after pollination, signaling to insects there’s no more nectar’.

If you take your eyes off the ground, you will see hawthorn boughs laden with pink-tinged blossom cascading down towards a bank of foamy green and white cow parsley. And last but not least, the common dog-rose with its large white and pink flowers basks in the sunshine.

We hope you have enjoyed our flower walk and look forward to having you with us next month.