Violet helleborines Epipactis purpurata are in flower now. This photo was taken today in a wood in the parish (but doesn't really do it justice). This orchid flowers much later than most other orchid species and likes deep shade so it can be difficult to see. But it is worth looking out for. The species is restricted to south and south-east England and we have some good populations in the woods of Plumpton.
JH
JH