When we asked Martin Holland to share his “Friend” story, we knew that he had an interest in nature photography, because over the years he has supplied us with some intriguing images of fungi he has discovered in Lydiard Park. So, when we set to writing Martin’s story, it was only natural that we should include a selection of his glorious photographs. As much as the wonderful panoramas of Lydiard House, the Lake, the Park, and the Walled Garden have inspired visitors, perhaps Martin’s perspective of the hidden gems at Lydiard will encourage us to look in the quiet and secluded spaces that we don’t always think of.
Over to you, Martin!
“I have been a member of the Friends of Lydiard Park for over ten years. My wife Julie has been the secretary since 2010.
That said, our interest in the House and Park goes back a lot longer. We first discovered Lydiard when we moved to Swindon from Gloucester in 1980. It was a great place to chill out.
Over the years our interest has intensified, as we have learned more about its history.
My primary hobby is photography. There are many idyllic places around Lydiard Park to take photographs throughout the year. I am particularly drawn to fungi and can be found with my camera searching around the undergrowth and far-flung corners of the park during the autumn which is the paramount time for fungi growth.
Lydiard Park now ranks high amongst my top places in the area to find fungi. These are some of my photographs. I have been able to name most of them.”
Thanks Martin. And see you in the Park again soon!
Dryad’s Saddle (Polyporus Squamosus)
Shaggy Inkcap, Coprinus Comatus
Yellow Shield, Pluteus Chrystophaeus
Spectacular Rustgill, Gymnopilus Centunculus
Clustered Brittlestem, Psathyrella Multipedat
Porcelain Fungus, Oudemansiella Mucida