Derek writes: This is not an April fool. The phrase “ Blackthorns winter“ has been used several times in the Shurvell household over the past couple of days.
After lovely warm days in March we now have a cold spell coinciding with the blossoming of Blackthorn, ( Prunus spinosa ) which produce sloes.
We call this a “Blackthorn Winter “ arriving at the end of March / beginning of April. The hedgerows are ablaze with white flowers.
Enjoy the spectacle but put on at least two extra layers.
