The spreading boughs of this Oak at Ticknall could no doubt tell a tale or two. How long it has been standing I do not know but others on this estate are reckoned on being over 1000 years old (yes 1000). January is a spectacular time to wander through this woodland as the Oak’s display some superb skeletal shapes against the skyline.
Closer examination does make you wonder just how they have survived as long as they have. Where the bark has fallen away you can see the inner trunk both knurled with the weather and age but also by the beetles that eat away the insides. Although you may wonder how much longer they will stand I do suspect it will be for many more years yet. Others are just stumps appearing lifeless, yet come the spring, new leaves will cloak the trunk and provide cover for the birds returning for the summer.
Elsewhere in the park the Bulrushes are still intact, soon the birds will be stripping the heads for the seeds and the insulating fluff for nest lining. The trees just beyond will also provide cover for perching Herons, I am not sure where they nest but it cannot be far away. Meanwhile Gorse is back in flower its bright yellow heads providing a much needed contrast to the seasonal browns, even its waxy scent adds a degree of freshness to a winters day.
The estate and Park are all part of the Calke Abbey Estate in South Derbyshire. The house isn’t open till Easter and is well worth a visit but meantime the grounds are open for exploration……a great winter walk.
23rd January
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 
you took the words right out of my mouth David, bet it could tell some great tales
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Just think, 1000 years old and more some of these trees……may be even Robin Hood or King Charles rested here!
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