May 23rd 2010 - Calderstones Park

An early moring walk in Calderstones to take a photograph of the English Gardens, but unfortunately the gardens were closed. I was lucky enough to capture this image of the early morning sun rising through the trees. It turned out to be one of the year's hottest days. Summer is on its way...

March 2nd 2010 - Glasshouse

Another lovely Spring-like afternoon stroll in Calderstones Park. This photograph is a rear view of the glasshouse which is home to the ancient Calder Stones - thought to be part of a sandstone entrance to a burial chamber. Sadly, their home is in need of repair and the public can only catch a glimpse of these historic relics through the windows. I love the earthy brown tones in this image and the implied movement of the grasses blowing in the breeze in the foreground.

March 1st 2010 - Spring Crocus

It felt like Spring had finally arrived this afternoon, heralded by this carpet of purple crocus in the dappled shade of the trees near the Coach House in Calderstones Park.

January 20th 2010 - The Allerton Oak

This ancient tree, in the grounds of Calderstones Park, is estimated to be around 1000 years old. I'm always amazed it is still standing since it is most certainly a hollow oak and the huge wide branches are propped up with metal rods. Legend has it that the 'Hundred Court', consisting of elders and decision makers, held their meetings under the tree during Liverpool's early days. It is certainly a strange and mystical sight. I liked the way the gnarled branches seemed to have a life of their own and formed 'pictures' when I took this photograph this morning.

January 14th 2010 - The Coach House, Calderstones Park

The sandstone Coach House was one of the outbuildings belonging to the Mansion in Calderstones Park. It now houses Ranger Service offices and The Coach House Gallery, where exhibitions of local arts and crafts are regularly held. I was on a mission, as night fell this evening, to photograph the ancient Allerton Oak tree in the Park when I took this shot.

January 1st 2010 - Sunrise on a new decade

I felt this was an appropriate start to my project. A beautiful, peaceful morning, with frost underfoot and the first sun appearing through the trees in Calderstones Park.