Around the natural pond was a tangle of brambles that was choking and covering the underlying bushes and trees.  Phil has been waging war on the brambles all around The Gables and he has been spectacularly successful. By the pond he uncovered a striking Sanguinea Midwinter Fire which is grown for its red branches and stems that make a show in the winter once its leaves have fallen. I am looking forward to seeing its small white flowers in May and June.