A walk in the snow,
Horses cantering in the freshly laid snow of a distant field, the tracks of a lonely fox as it had ventured across a field in search of food. The crunch of the snow under foot is pleasing as the family play together and enjoy the pleasures of building a snowman.  Sheep, gathered closely together to keep warm from the bitter cold and the snowy ground. The gates of Luzley Hall, gives the illusion of a time gone by with an enchanted snow covered garden beyond.

Why are you looking at me, the sheep seem to say, their ears pricked at the sound we make, their blank stares make you wonder ‘what on earth are they thinking about’.

These images were taken around the farmland above Ashton Under Lyne, they show a mixture of rural and urban living, where the pylons protrude out of the ground either spoiling or enhancing the landscape depending on your point of view.

To me, these images show that a short walk away, you could be in a different world, this snow would be gone in 12 hours, not a trace to be seen, this is a time to enjoy, in my opinion, some of nature’s best weather.  Children are eagerly sliding down the slope on makeshift sledges, families making snow men or just larking around – all enjoying this part of winter, when our countryside becomes a winter wonderland.

Join me on my walk, enjoy as I did, the pleasures of the day.

20/28 I look into the distance, and wonder what has happened, where has all the grass gone? Have I gone to sleep and woken up in heaven where the land is glistening, cold and white?

25/28 My hooves are cold, I feel sad today, and all my grass has gone away.  No warm shoes for my four feet, just a blanket on my back. You humans, can enjoy, you are all wrapped up snug and warm! I know I have a coat of hair, and a mane to keep me warm but nothing beats a stable filled with a comfy bed of straw.

Words by Jan­ice Hill (Moments in words and pictures.)