…in which we follow the gently-meandering River Petteril from an M6 underpass on Carlisle’s urban fringe through Wreay’s ancient woodland to one of Cumbria's most beautiful churches in search of lost words. As we stroll, with Jamie Normington from Cumbria Wildlife Trust, we discuss our changing woodlands, Cumbrian birdlife vernacular, how we can reforge a connection with the landscape, and the remarkable architectural legacy of Sara Losh, first lady of Wreay (pronounced ‘rear’).
For more about the Lost Words project see thelostwords.org
The song that plays out this episode is 'Willow' from the Lost Words album. You can find out more about it at thelostwords.org/album/
For more about Wreay Woods see cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/wreay-woods
St Mary's Church, Wreay.
Meadow alongside the River Petteril.
Reaching Wreay woods.
Autumn colours.
Reds and golds.
Investigating the alder.
There are some fabulous ancient oak trees around here.
Approaching St Mary's Church, Wreay.
Mark in suitably autumnal jacket and our guest for today, Jamie Normington.
The remarkable interior of St Mary's Church.
Our route.