Country diary: An unexpected vista of sky-light and symmetry | Amy-Jane Beer

Yorkshire Wolds: What a difference a few years makes - this used to be an expanse of wet mud, now it's a precious chalkland pondThe last time I visited this quiet notch in the western scarp of the Yorkshire Wolds was three years ago, and I was trespassing. I'd been curious to see the "washpit", a large pond fed from a chalk spring, and wondering, I confess, if it might be a good spot for a swim. Alas, I discovered that the bund holding back the water was broken, and in the place of clear water was an expanse of wet mud etched with the tracks of disappointed birds.Surface water is rare in chalk landscapes, and the loss was awful to see. But I've learned that it's always worth checking before calling out a problem like this. I messaged my friend Jon Traill at Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, who has been working to restore old dew ponds across the wolds and has built excellent relations with many local landowners. He made some discreet enquiries and reached out to the farmer, who gratefully accepted an offer of help. I've been meaning to go back ever since. Continue reading...