IT’S always a pleasure when an unusual bird turns up in your garden.

THE nearest village to my house is a small place but it does boast something that is becoming rather scarce in rural Ireland – an old-fashioned working farm with an entrance half way down the street.

Koi carp are available for sale in Ireland.

I HAD a close encounter with a fox the other day.

THE cold weather came back last week but I was a bit better prepared for it this time.

IF YOU feed the birds in your garden you should be keeping a close eye on them because at this time of year unusual species can turn up.

IT’S been a winter of extreme weather.

LAST week I was in England, visiting friends in a rural part of Devon.

I HAD to cut down another tree that had got too big for its boots the other day.

THERE is a series of chores that I perform every morning, with the enthusiastic assistance of my dog.