Michael Pirrie

Damn! I just watched the England v Czech game of Euro (2020/1) willing England to beat Czech Rep. so that I could use my ‘Czech Out’ pun only to discover that they don't go out of the competitiona but go through as best losers! But sod it, I’m going with it anyway!

So before the football we did Goodgym, which yet again proved that it reaches the parts of Brighton other gyms just don’t reach. Another delightful little corner of our city was discovered as we met at Maggie’s Corner / Woollard’s Field Orchard right on the edge of town.

Cllr Kate told us that the play park known as Maggie’s Corner was named after the local woman who campaigned tirelessly for it to be built to give local young people a much needed place to play and hang out. But the question on everyone’s lips was was Woollard’s Field named after our very own Jason? Apparently not but after his stirling litter picking effort tonight perhaps it should be!

Local resident Sarah showed us round the charming copse and orchard that was created 8 or 9 years ago and planted with heritage apple trees for the local community to enjoy. Our two tasks for the evening were to trim the long grass and weeds growing around the base of the fruit trees, which helps the trees to thrive by removing the competition. And the other was to pick up the copious amount of litter along the fence line of Maggie’s Corner. Although it’s disappointing that those who use the park feel the need to throw their litter over the fence into the orchard, on the other hand the amount of litter does show the park is very well used and that Maggie was right! Her park is indeed very much needed!

Despite the litter this place is still a wonderful little semi wild corner of town and we enjoyed marvelling at the giant dandelion ‘clocks’ and the Cinnibar Moths (Thanks Philippa for the lovely pics and moth ID).

We left the site transformed by our efforts much to Sarah & Kate's delight. Sarah told us about plans for improved access and pathways so I’m sure there will be several more opportunities to help out at this wonderful little spot. I for one can't wait!