The alpha cock quails are picking on the beta male quail and tearing him to pieces morning, noon and night. He has lost too many feathers and his skin shows pink under the bald patches.

We worked out a solution this morning. Keep beta male in the cage during the day whilst the other quails wander around in the barn

And switch them over at night. They can all see each other but they won’t be able to pick on the weakling.

So, in that vein, I am going to focus on everyday life here as usual – the garden, the animals, the seasonal work outside and occasional visitors. Below are just three plants that gave me pleasure as I went on my early morning round of animal feeding.

Our initial aim is to collect shopping and medication for those who are in quarantine. We will also offer a friendly voice on the end of a telephone for those who live alone and are in isolation and are, possibly, not connected to the world via internet. So far there have been many offers to join the volunteer group. The hope and prayer is that our assistance will not be required in the village in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Nigel could teach us all about self isolation. He hasn’t fussed even though he would like to go out and from time to time he sits by the back door with a wistful look in his eyes.