LandLove Magazine May 2017 Back Issue

N othing beats tucking into a cooked breakfast made with freshly laid eggs from your very own hens. In the fourth instalment of our beginner’s guide to the good life (p.71) we discover what’s involved with keeping your own small flock of poultry. Whether you have a smallholding or an urban back yard, by choosing the right housing and breeds you can welcome some feathered friends into your family and they’ll reward you with their entertaining antics and delicious eggs. I’m always excited to find talented folk around the British Isles who are inspired by our natural landscape to create stunning products and, in this issue, we meet two very creative female entrepreneurs. On page 90 we visit a shepherdess who has turned her flock’s fleeces into a deeply desirable range of country clothing which reflects her Fellside location, while on page 106 we discover how one enterprising young woman turns foraged local gemstones into delicate pieces of jewellery with an elemental quality. Now the weather has warmed up, our wildlife is busy once more. On page 96 we take a look at the bustling life on our British riverbanks, while on page 66 we learn about the majestic eagles that can be spotted on our shores. On a smaller scale, the warmer temperatures mean there are more butterflies to be spotted at this time of year. To encourage as many of these valuable pollinating insects into our gardens, take a look at our colourful butterfly-friendly planting ideas on page 22. May isn’t only a busy time for wildlife, it’s also traditionally a time of celebration. From Maypole dancing to Beltane fire festivals, there are lots of ancient traditional events happening around the country this month. On page 112, we discover some of the most exciting ones which will make great family days out. However you plan to spend this month, I hope you have a wonderful time.