I walked round Barton Fields, cared for by the Abingdon Naturalists, today – a hot day in the middle of August. There was purple loosestrife growing in colonies round the ditch that runs near the Thames, and in wetland areas at the centre.

Bees and butterflies were attracted to the loosestrife and also the water mint growing on the wetlands. The smell of mint was refreshing on such a hot day.

Apples, and hips, hoars, and various berries are nearing maturity. Apples had fallen in some areas.

Blackberries are being harvested by people and birds.

The lower half of the fields, where bindweed tangles with other plants, is lush and green.

The upper half of the field has turned pale gold.

Despite the heat, runners and cyclists exercised along the cycle path along the top of the meadow.