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Nice to get out for some fresh air before the traditional Christmas lunch. Actually it isn't that fresh at all, It's extremely mild. The Met Office were saying it was likely to be the warmest Christmas Eve on record. It might well be the muddiest as well.. We have brought the good old Wellington Boots which turns out to be a wise move.
There are very few people about, just the occasional dog walker. A few Swans, and a startled Great Egret dot the waters edge. On the water there are large gatherings of Tufted Duck. The adult male is all black except for white flanks. It has an obvious head tuft that gives the species its name. The adult female is brown with paler flanks. It is calm and peaceful,and as much as I could wish for. I would be happy to be here all day I'm sure. Maybe a hip flask and a couple of Mince Pies to complete the scene? We are now crossing the Weir and the Old Boathouse and fishing jetty are coming into view.
In total this splendid old Victorian Reservoir covers a total of 114 acres. To walk the perimeter is just a couple of miles though. Originally built in 1890 to supply water to Northampton. These days a place for fishing , walking and birdwatching. I'm appreciative of the sanctuary on offer today. I find Christmas a difficult proposition these days. I'm nostalgic for those gone by when it was full of excitement and expectation. Very sadly certain individuals have shamefully conspired in recent years to ruin things. During the intervening years there has been no attempt to heal the wounds. This speaks volumes, and is probably best to leave them to it. I genuinely hope they are happy,maybe one day will spare a few seconds to reflect and maybe even find a little self awareness. Perhaps that is a little too much to ask though?
Right, that's got that out of the way. I feel better for it too which I suppose is the purpose of writing and journalling. In 1974 Ownership and management of the reservoir are transferred to the Anglian Water Authority.
The Reservoir has a total capacity of 414 million gallons. We are over half way round now and have reached the 'extremely muddy' side. Remember seeing a couple round here once wearing ' white trainers' . They tried valiantly to keep them clean but ultimately failed. A lesson learned maybe?
A very short walk in comparison to recent more lengthy ones. Always good to just be outside in the green and blue. Or rather more brown and grey today in all honesty. Leaving the Reservoir we exit onto the Coton Road and head back towards the car. There are things to be done, not least a Turkey that needs to be in the oven. Sprouts to cross and carrots to slice, not forgetting the stuffing.
I wish all my blog readers a very fulfilling and meaningful 2024. I appreciate your support.
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