Amid the gloom of lockdown, I have taken solace in nature | David Lindo

If you're feeling cooped up, defy the cold, head for your local park and marvel at the antics of gulls, starlings and fieldfaresI endured the first lockdown while living alone for a period in Spain. The virus was rampant in the country and measures to stop it were draconian. For nearly three months I lived in virtual confinement with the occasional visit to the corner shop being my only respite - my only chance to see people other than a rare visit from the postman. We were not even permitted to take exercise.I was based in Mérida, a city in the south west. The front of my flat overlooked an incredibly ugly secondary school - out back on the terrace, the skyline was dominated by chimneys and satellite dishes. There was not a lick of green to be seen. As many will have experienced, it was a very tough time. Continue reading...