So far, every day in 2026 has blessed us with fantastic winter sunshine. Yes, it’s cold, but it’s winter, and nature is doing what it needs to do at this time of year. The light at dawn, and then again at sunset, has been sublime, casting long shadows across frozen ground and lending a chilled radiance to people, structures, and plant life. The light dusting of snow we received at the end of the week is still very much in evidence, and the last of the exterior Christmas decorations are quietly retreating back into garages, lofts and cupboards.

Sparrows raucously chattering in the bushes along Long Mill Lane, dog walking at Stonehouse, bonfires burning the remnants of last autumn and of course, Platt cats.

This is Platt on 4 January 2026.