Hope springs

It’s high time we recognised the dandelion as the stunning wildflower it is, rather than a nuisance weed

“This spring, instead of simply celebrating the joys of the new season, our lives are darkened again by world events and the horrors of war in Ukraine. It’s impossible to avoid, even on the long walks into the hills that I use to find perspective on – and resolution to – life’s challenges.

But I have found that as winter has given way to longer, brighter days, I have stopped more than normal to notice the everyday changes: the growing chorus of birdsong, the flowering celandines, the first hedgerow blossoms, broad bean shoots rising in the veg bed. Things that I take for granted have a new beauty, resonance and poignance, and this always gives me strength. I hope our lovely May nature rambles, provide inspiration for your own life-affirming adventures. And why not enjoy the music of the new season that has brought joy and hope down the centuries.

Perhaps we can also find time for fresh perspective on a beautiful wildflower vital to spring wildlife but so often despised as a weed. When you look closely at a dandelion, you will see what a marvel it is, yet it is hated by so many. It really is time to change our minds and cherish its unplanned blooms.

If you’re stirred by a love of nature and need an outlet for your writing, why not enter our nature writing competition? I can’t wait to read your entries.

Fergus Collins, editor@countryfile.com

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THIS MONTH’S CONTRIBUTORS

Susie White, “The Lake District is a landscape formed by geology, altered by human occupation, and Great Langdale is a microcosm of this multi-layered history.”

Duncan Haskell, “It’s no surprise spring is a time of festivity and song. For what are songs if not a reflection of human experience, our response to the gifts of nature?”

Phil Gates, “A pasture turning gold under a blanket of dandelion flowers is a joy to behold – one of the great natural floral spectacles of late spring.”

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