This is the tenth day that the dogs and I have slithered, slipped and slide our way around the old quarry. The snow has become progressively crunchier and the animal tracks less and less distinct, but there are some clear muddy trails that show which of the badger setts are occupied.

The forecast is for milder wetter weather next week. It will make a change and that is what I like about the weather of the British Isles. Often different, and always good value for a moan.