Under the influence of a significant, stable high pressure system the temperature is steadily rising it’s time to don warm weather gear and take a walk around the harbour between Nutbourne and Thornham.

 This will be the first time we’ve been this way for a while so the first thing that’s noticeable are these painted stones on the sea wall. Lots of different, happy comments on our unusual life at present
ranging from thanks to the NHS to remembering VE Day with many pleas to be happy in between. Close by, the number of Reed Warblers in the reed beds close to the Nutbourne Bunny, is quite amazing. It’s a delight to hear them all chattering away and occasionally see them flit from one reed to another and a clear sign of the passage of spring.

Thornham marina is bustling with activity as boat owners check out and try to catch up with long
delayed maintenance. It’s only the fourth day that access has been possible after the lifting of restrictions so with favourable weather, enthusiasm abounds. This particular spot has a timeless feel with this classic yacht dried out close to the gates of the pool; nice and secure inside but rather limited access at the peak of a tide only.

Amongst the rocks at Prinstead there’s lots of this Red Valerian, a robust plant that seems to like rocky spots. It’s also a welcome splash of colour just where many people are congregating. Social distancing seems to be optional here, maybe it’s because this is where you can park and some people aren’t prepared to walk. Otherwise most people are quite conscientious about keeping two metres
away from anyone else. An increase in politeness is quite noticeable, it’s much more likely now that people will make a comment or greeting than before the pandemic.