No. This isn't a bah humbug moan.
I like this time of year. There are lots more birds visiting gardens for people to see and you don't have to get up very early to hear the (winter) dawn chorus.
To add some Christmas jollity, MP's have clearly stated that Government plans to nod through any and all development without thought to the social or environmental consquencies are plain bonkers. That's one of the best early presents I've ever had! I don't know what to ask Santa for now. What do you want for Christmas?
If anyone asks, here are five top answers:
Mighty empires through-out history have vanished because they failed to plan with nature in mind and either ran out of water or food supplies and simply could no longer support themselves. There is a danger that we are close to repeating their mistakes on a grand scale and an urgent rethink of the way live and do business is desperately required. But this is no time to be glum.A new year is about to start and I want to face it in a positive mood.
In 2012, we will start to reduce carbon emissions. The changes I've made in my garden will attract and support blackbirds, starlings and house sparrows (all declining in London). Swifts will discover and nest in the box I installed for them last summer. Corporates, developers and businesses will step boldly forward to deliver change where Government hasn't. More Londoners will get to enjoy open spaces and the feel of a warm breeze on their faces and cool grass between their toes.
Funding for environmental projects and conservation has been seriously pruned by government, but we know what's required and how to deliver it. Now all we need is an English spring to restore numbers of dwindling turtle doves, partridges, tree sparrows, lapwing, mallard and skylark.
Step forward for nature and plant your pear tree today.