Slugs and newts and blooming Balsam.

I have a deep hatred of Himalayan Balsam.

It is pernicious, blousy and pink.

Every year I spy the creeping menace as it makes its advances from along the River Stor.

So I stalk the reaches of the high waters of the River Arun, ripping out the plants by their ineffectual roots and tossing the carmine headed cultivars into the rippling depths where they float, like Ophelia, to their decay upon the gravel shoals under Greatham Bridge.

Time is short as by tomorrow the pistol shooting seed pods will have showered their profligate progeny into the water to float further down, colonising their alien lands.

www.rhs.org.uk/Advice/profiles0705/himalayanbalsam.asp

Here's the blooming stuff at Stopham.

I am pleased to say that I had much more joyful times when I moved the dustbins out yesterday evening ready for collection (I know to live life in the fast track!)

For there, underneath, was a Smooth Newt AND a Leopard Slug. (with thanks to the Master Craftsman for some in-focus photos.)

If only I could find another Leopard slug I might just be able to induce them into mating. Until that time we will just have to content our voyeuristic selves by watching here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtD5dxTcXm4 (Go on Jenny - be brave - its fascinating)