A number of trees have been cut down as part of the start of the work on the cycle path through Abbey Meadow
There is a much clearer view along the Mill Stream now on the one side.
Work is now underway widening and improving the cycle way.
The footpath along the lower part of Barton Fields is very close to the River Thames and next to an overflow channel.
Reeds and sedges grow where there are pools and boggy areas in the lower part.
Along the upper edge of the meadow runs a cycle way. Trees hide the buildings the other side, above the flood plain.
A couple of weeks ago the grass was cut in the grassy flower meadow on the upper part.
It got piled into several heaps. Green grass is already growing back.
But we have reached the tipping point of the year at Barton Fields. Flowers have turned to seeds.
Woody nightshade berries can be seen, dangerously red, at the lower end.
Hawthorn berries at the upper part are a less striking shade.
Teasel grows in both the upper and lower parts of the meadow. Spiders find their spikey heads an excellent place to spin webs.
Seeing St Helen’s Wharf this evening, made me realise autumn is here. Today’s date – September 21st – is on or near the autumn equinox.
Green leaves have turned to browns and gold on some trees opposite St Helen’s Wharf.
Autumn events like the Michaelmas Fair and Craft Fair will not be happening this year – like so many events in Spring and Summer that were cancelled. The rate of transmission of Covid-19 is on the increase again in the second wave. This will not be a normal autumn.
We had a few days away as an alternative to the holiday abroad that was cancelled. See the Not Abingdon Blog.
A man died recently on Ock Street as a result a 3 vehicle accident. There have been other serious accidents in the last 12 months. As a consequence one resident has started a petition for speed calming measures on Ock Street. Here is the petition … https://www.change.org/p/oxfordshire-county-council-speed-camera-on-ock-street-abingdon.