Lovely Idea: Bandana Pumpkins

October is a month of colour. The oaks are dyed a deeper bronze, lane-side elms are splashed pale gold, the beeches shade from copper to orange, and the birch wears a dress of new minted gold. In the hedgerows the field maple waves orange and red banners, the leaves of wild cherry glow like fire, the sycamore dons a scarlet cloak and the countryside is vibrant with autumn berries and fruits. But this display doesn’t last forever, as soon the leaves will begin to fall and lanes, lawns and woods will wear a picturesque carpet of autumn colours.

Squirrels delight to sample beechmast, acorns and hazelnuts while wood mice enjoy feasting on rosehips or nuts. Birds linger about the red hawthorn berries and thrushes banquet on yew berries. On a mild day, when a sparkle of sunshine warms the air, a few butterflies may still be seen - perhaps a red admiral, painted lady or large white, that delights to feast upon my cabbages!

When the slim crescent of a new moon hangs in the sky, the owls will come out to hunt. It’s easy to mimic the hoot of the brown owl with it’s “too-white, too-whoo-o” but the screech of a barn owl is much harder to copy.

“If ducks do slide at Hallowtide, At Christmas they will swim; If ducks do swim at Hallowtide, At Christmas they will slide.”

Pumpkins hog the limelight in October, but don't forget less showy seasonal fare. Celebrate the game season with slow-cooked pheasant, wild mushrooms and hearty root vegetables.