Damien Enright: Hampstead Heath was always full of birds and wild berries to feed them

Reflecting on a grassy public space rambling and hilly, embracing ponds, recent and ancient woodlands

People on a park bench in Hampstead Heath. Picture: Yui Mok/PA Wire

Out walking on Hampstead Heath in north London two Sundays ago, I decided to take a look at the birds on Hampstead Ponds where, 30 years ago, we used to swim every summer. Our visit to England was brief, with the single intention of meeting family for the first gathering in two-and-a-half years. We'd planned for a walk on the Heath later that day, it being replete with memories.

Now, in February, I thought the pond environs would be strictly the haunt of coot and heron but was surprised to see not birds but coveys of pink people of both genders on the banks and in the water. All were wearing bathing suits but no bikinis were to be seen.