Frosty start to the last day of 2025 in Albert Park, Abingdon. One of the smaller oak trees is still clinging to its leaves, while the larger oaks have let theirs fall.

The giant redwoods (Wellingtonias) cast long shadows, keeping the frost protected from the sun after it has melted elsewhere.

There seem to be a lot of birds about, mostly high up in the trees, but some coming down to the ground.

Not just birds: there are signs of early growth too, with snowdrops pushing through.

A couple of trees are even in blossom, and despite the earlier cold, bumblebees are visiting their flowers. The mahonia is also popular.

Albert has seen many changes since being erected in 1865. There were no big trees then. No jet trails. Another year is over, and Albert at 160 years is a fixture in a park that changes around him.

2026. Happy New Year. Year 161 for Albert.