For a number of years now, I have been reliably blogging every Friday with barely a hitch.

And then in the last few weeks it has all gone to pot. I'm hoping you'll forgive me, because I think I have got the most amazing wildlife gardening excuse.

This:

Yes, I've bought a new garden. It's big. And it's in a right old state!

My dream garden would be an absolute blank canvas. But this is a close second best - a large garden, once loved, but that has got totally out of control.

It is 'blessed' with about 25 leylandii, each I estimate about 60 foot tall.

Only some of them aren't even standing...

...and as you can see nor is the garden wall it fell onto.

Then there are all the nettles. And bindweed.

And the military style fencing.

You get the sense that it is long time since this garden became too much for its former owners.

But what an adventure and privilege to have the chance to bring it back to life! An adventure which will now form much of the content of this blog.

I hope you enjoy following my journey as I see how successfully I can give nature a home

If you want to drop by my RSPB wildlife gardening blog, it is updated every Friday, and I'd love to see you there - www.rspb.org.uk/community/blogs/hfw