This Week
From us to you
Soaring eagles, calling time on the shilling and two great theatre productions
Snowdrops of spring
The early flowers of spring are one of nature’s most welcome sights. Snowdrops are especially lovely, with their rich green leaves and delicate white flowers nodding on impossibly slim stems. There are more than 400 varieties to see in the Winter Garden at Anglesey Abbey, in Cambridgeshire, and their snowy blooms, flecked with touches of green, are guaranteed to lift your spirits. For a good show in your own garden next year, they’re best planted ‘in the green’, straight after flowering. ✱ nationaltrust.org.uk
EAGLE-EYED RESEARCH
A study indicates as white-tailed eagle numbers have increased in Scotland, the proportion of lamb remains found in nests has declined – reassuring news for farmers and conservationists. From the 1998 figure of only 18 breeding pairs, there are now around 122. Long-term analysis of the food remains in their nests shows that seabirds and fish form the majority of their diet, reports the RSPB.
Did you know?
Peach Fuzz is Pantone’s 2024 colour of the year, and this warm, mellow tone is perfect for bringing early sunshine into your home. For just a hint of peach, take a look at this beautiful vintage heron print, from £13.50, from Ink & Drop; inkanddrop.com
On this day in history
15 February 1971: Pounds, shillings and pence rolled down the road to oblivion, as decimal currency was introduced in the UK. ‘Old money’ had 12 pennies to the shilling, and 20 shillings to the pound. The new coinage was based on multiples of 10, hence it was called decimal. Many were sad to see the old sixpences and threepenny bits disappear, but decimal calculations are certainly simpler.
FINGERS ON BUZZERS
TV and stage favourite
