A place in the sun

Val takes advantage of the winter sunshine in her garden

- Val Bourn

AS we approach the shortest day, 21 December, I’m thinking about the year past while listening to a robin’s piping song. I’ve positioned myself on the south-facing seat and I’m enjoying the winter sunshine. Whenever the weather’s good enough, I wrap up and take my cup of tea outside. If I sit still long enough, the birds keep coming to the peanuts, fat balls and sunflower seeds.

There’s always a flurry of feeding half an hour before the sun sinks below the horizon, and we enjoy some of the best winter sunsets in December because the garden at Spring Cottage faces due south. On a good day, I can enjoy the sunrise and sunset from my seat.

The advantages of winter sun and fresh air have gone up in my estimation since Covid-19 struck. Some scientists believe that vitamin D, known as the sunshine vitamin, could contribute to protecting people from this unpleasant virus, because it helps prevent respiratory infections. It’s also extremely important for keeping teeth and bones healthy. It helps our muscles and nerves to function, too, and is important in maintaining a healthy immune system.