I often take a wander through our little gate in the low picket fence that forms the border between our back garden and the farmland beyond. From here we can appreciate views of Pontesford and Pontesbury Hills through the changing light of the seasons. In the paddock adjoining our garden a magnificent old oak proudly stands awaiting our daily appreciation. I have taken so many photos of “our oak” in all weathers and in all the variations of light. It has been pruned to cattle reach height and looks like a perfect illustration from a book.

Today in the final hour of daylight the sun was so low it lit the tree like a spotlight lights the star of a show. These low-level rays of the winter sun gave the fields leading up to the hills a wonderful quality. Bright green streaks and dark shadow lines. Misty highlights closed in around the hedgerows.