This magnificent silver birch caught my attention when I went for a walk in our neighbourhood last Sunday afternoon. It's growing and flourishing on land which, until recently, was the grounds of a small secondary school, but in the last year the buildings have been demolished except for the sports hall. The area is being developed as a community sports facility and now the trees can been seen and appreciated as part of the landscaping.
During the last year the demolition work has been an upheaval, but now there's an open area where the buildings stood and new tennis courts. Other spaces are planned which will benefit the community. The students have been moved to two other secondary schools, which has not been popular with all parents. However, the primary school has been retained.
Any bright colour is welcome during a week of mainly grey skies and the natural red trunk and branches of this tree and the Autumn leaves of the other against the blue and yellow paint of the sports hall stood out without any need to enhance the photo.
Walking is my way of getting some exercise and also relaxing. It hasn't been easy to find quiet times this week for various reasons, but even a short afternoon walk is always beneficial.