Permission to speak, Sir?

Trying to undo two hundred years of tradition, not always good, on the chalk streams is tough for a newer generation of river keeper. Permits, paperwork and pointless permission doesn't help.

How Important is language in public discourse?

Had bit of a back and forth with Ian Coghill yesterday about how I perceived some of his comments regarding tree planting. As a forester it came across to me as a minor attack and while that clearly wasn't intended, that is still how it came across. I've been accused of being a bit thin-skinned…

Can 'Britishness' be defined by animals?

Which animals should we put on our banknotes?

Are We Driving the Curlew to Silence and Extinction?

Curlew Day is a wake-up call—learn why this beloved bird is vanishing, what’s driving its decline, and what controversial solutions could save it before it's too late.

Fishing Close Season

What are people’s thoughts on having a close season for fishing? Currently there’s no coarse fishing on rivers. Trout season on rivers is allowed, if that will stop in October. There always seems to be a lot of moaning about it. My view is some anglers are a selfish bunch and are just trying to…

Does anyone have any views on thoroughbreds (out of racing)?

I see so many people looking for horses who specify ‘no thoroughbreds’, but personally I’ve found that they are great horses. So adaptable and most have seen so much in training that they take most things in their stride. What does anyone else think?

How can we help the public care more about where their food comes from?

A running theme on Scribehound has been the connection (or lack of one) that people feel towards their food, often with reference to how different attitudes are in places like France. How can we encourage UK consumers to value great quality over price, especially now. Do you think it is a…

What's your favourite local dialect name for an animal / plant / landscape feature?

I love the Norfolk name for a ladybird, which is 'Bishy Barnabee' and would love examples of other such local names for things!

Time to Get Real?

As always during a modern crisis, the government overlooks the greatest lever it can pull. Us

Bluebells - had to be shared

Simply for some shared appreciation for the woods at this time of year!

From Sheep to the Saddle—Dewi Haddock’s Unbelievable Double

Meet Dewi Haddock: the 16-year-old rising star who owns, trains, and rides his winners himself. Learn about his early success, his friends and mentors, and his love for sheep and chickens!

Join the Conversation Shaping Our Countryside’s Future

Discover the new Scribehound Countryside 'Discussions': a space where rural voices can talk through the issues facing the countryside, celebrate conservation wins and connect with like-minded people