Lavington 2001
2001 - a new year and some would say a new millennium. And there's new life on January 1st in the shape of a lamb born at Locksands Farm, almost in the village centre. The lamb is in the tender care of my sister.
New plant growth too - 2001 has been particularly good for the local wild snowdrops - through February and into March
A village scene - a view from Locksands Farm. The weather has been very wet this spring!
The scene below was from the same vantage point, but shows a view a bit further to the West (a cedar tree may be seen in both photos). It also reminds us that there has been sunshine too.
In the foreground of this March picture are sheep grazing on Locksands Farm - a poignant reminder of pastoral peace at a time when the dread Foot and Mouth disease threatens. Beyond, to the right can be seen the tower of St Mary's, the parish church whilst the white gables are a part of 'The Old House'. The steep area of downland beyond is known as Rams Cliff.
Market Lavington has a railway, but no station. Normally, the line is the haunt of diesel passenger trains racing down to Exeter or heavy trains of limestone trundling along. Quite regular steam trains pass too, hauling rail enthusiasts or rich tourists. The picture below shows a set of Pullman carriages being hauled by a 'Merchant Navy' pacific steam locomotive. The train is crossing Lavington Viaduct on March 14th. The weather, once again, was very wet and the view is to the West.
After such dreadfully wet weather, it is good to report that parts of Spring were superb and produced lovely sunsets on a number of occasions. This was May 23rd
Summer has started brilliantly. Even Foot and Mouth disease appears to have been contained in Wiltshire - even if cases still occur elsewhere. It is with relief that I can report that the Locksands Farm sheep are still fine - and the footpaths are mostly open again - although very overgrown due to enforced idleness. So, at last, it is possible to see the house at Locksands Farm, in its setting.
This was just as summer started.
Now some early summer evening sights in the village.
This letterbox, one of a number from the reighn of Queen Victoria, is at the crossroads of Kings Road with Parham Lane and Drove Lane.
This building was used as a chapel in the 18th and 19th centuries. Children waiting for Sunday school used to twist pennies in the brickwork, causing rather strange holes.
The parish church of Market Lavington is St Mary's. This picture was taken late in the evening of the longest day, 2001.
