Eight volunteers planted 20 oak, 20 downy birch and approximately 60 Scots pine on a damp day with a short burst or two of rain and blue sky.

A great many young oaks were observed coming up — literally hundreds, none taller than perhaps 30 cm. Deer pressure remains an issue, yet it appears to have lessened. There are very few oaks taller than 1 m in the understorey, so planting with deer protection will continue to be necessary.

A couple on holiday from Germany joined us; the husband, a forester, planted a Scots pine and took its location by GPS so as to be able to visit it again when they return one day.

If the weather is good next Saturday we will continue planting and perhaps start checking the trees that were planted last year. There is an awareness that it is not just a case of planting trees, that those that are growing require ongoing care until they are established.

It was a successful day that was enjoyed by all. Thanks to all who participated.