Noar Hill Hampshire 23rd August One Day Meeting
It was the holiday season so only five people joined me for a walk around these chalk pits near Selbome, much loved by Lady Anne Brewis. Due to the heat and drought, many of the plants were past their best or no longer visible, but Gentiana amarella(autumn gentian or felwort) - the proclaimed object of the meeting - were indeed carpeting the whole area with their purple spikes. However, I had to show members photographs taken the previous year to give them an idea of what they are like at their best - lack of rain meant the flowers were smaller than usual.
Having been a volunteer warden of this peaceful site, with wonderful views, for the past two years, I know that people come here from all over the country for the prolific flowers and rare butterflies. An early summer return visit was urged for next year! Today's meeting was concluded with a walk round the nearby Gilbert White Museum and its extensive grounds, where many rare plants are being grown.
PAMELA LEE