BRAVED the elements to visit Eaves Wood, near Silverdale, and I was sheltered from the icy wind by high limestone cliffs.

There is a good car park near the entrance to the wood, which is one of the few remaining bits of ancient woodland in Britain.

It has been managed for timber since the 16th century and is now looked after by the National Trust.

Woodland like this can be exciting even in winter and I found snowdrops under the trees. Although some blooms were past their best they were joined by primroses, violets and wild strawberry.

For a number of years snowdrops have been the subject of some controversy. Despite efforts to control the practice, millions of bulbs are being dug up in Turkey where they occur in the wild.

They are now being sold at very cheap prices in garden centres all over Europe. If this goes on conservationists fear that the native Turkish snowdrop could well become extinct.

Although it grows well in Britain the snowdrop is thought not to be native but was possible introduced by the monks in the 13th century.

Being white, they were regarded as a symbol of purity and have long been known as the Fair Maids of February, although they stay in bloom until well into March.

Eaves Wood is one of those places which should be visited during each season of the year.

There is a well marked footpath running around it, parking is free and it is close to Leighton Moss bird reserve run by the RSPB.

Some naturalists' say that this is one of the best areas in Europe to study all forms of wildlife. I have to say that I agree with this view.