102. 21.04.2012 Deep in Gwydyr
Gwydyr forest is tucked away high above the level pastures of the River Conwy and shelters under the mountains of the Carneddau. It isn’t just a forest though, there are vast swathes of moorland and bogs as well as wooded knolls, lakes and hidden pastures.
At one time it was a hive of industrial activity. The Romans discovered lead and zinc in them thar hills and the area is riddled with industrial remnants from ages past. Piles of brightly coloured rocks and spoil are the tell tale signs of the past and there are shafts of danger around every corner. In this day and age of unbridled promiscuity and despite the advances in medical sciences and antibiotics, shafts of danger should still be avoided at all costs.
Meanwhile, public health announcements aside, the industry in Gwydyr forest was at its peak between 1850 and 1919. Nowadays its vastness and inaccessibility mean that on a day like today with dark skies, showers of nastiness followed by sunshine and scuttling clouds deter all but a handful of mud splattered mountain bikers give the place a wide berth. With just the sound of the wind in the trees, the trickle of water and the calls of preying birds, you could easily believe you are in the middle of a prehistoric wilderness, until you slip over in a pile of bright yellow dog shit that is. “All dogs must be kept under control and on a lead” says the sign on account of the sheep. But obviously that only applies to other people’s dogs and not yours. Irresponsible dog owners eh? Tut. Just who are they?
Dog shit, mountain bikers in leg wear that would set Rod Stewart a blush, unbridled sex, shafts of doom and the Romans aside this is one of my favourite parts of Wales and changes not only with the seasons but with every passing cloud.
I’ve no idea what the red plant is, I’ve never seen it before. The redness is the swelling of buds and not flowers. Red and swollen buds.... a repeat dose of antibiotics me thinks. Where’s Dr Cotterill when you need him most?
I’ve no idea what the red plant is, I’ve never seen it before. The redness is the swelling of buds and not flowers. Red and swollen buds.... a repeat dose of antibiotics me thinks. Where’s Dr Cotterill when you need him most?
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