Family history on Horsey Island
David Brayne of Evercreech, Somerset, shares his family's connection to Horsey Island, responding to a recent Country diary entry. His grandparents, Gertrude and Albert (known as Old Smoke), lived there in the early 20th century. His mother spent her childhood catching shrimps and caring for a donkey, charging visitors a penny a ride. Old Smoke, a thatcher and marsh guide, was once overtaken by the tide on the causeway, possibly returning from the pub. He lost his horse and cart but escaped on a second horse tied behind.
Zebra finch research questioned
Roderick MacFarquhar of Edinburgh comments on a report about a researcher spending 10 years decoding zebra finch chirps. He finds it reassuring that funds are available for such research amid climate change denial and foreign aid cuts in US policy, humorously hoping the finches can warn when it's time to head for the ark.
Thatcher and Margo Leadbetter comparison
David Prothero of Harlington, Bedfordshire, believes Margaret Thatcher based herself on the character Margo Leadbetter from the sitcom The Good Life, citing similar manner and attitude toward employees, following Penelope Keith's obituary.
Monarch memory mix-up
Dr Christopher Calman of Stroud, Gloucestershire, recalls memory tests where the question "Who is the reigning monarch?" was often answered as "Margaret Thatcher."
Ancient tree inventory debate
Reg Hand of Derby responds to Prof Rebecca Clifford's suggestion to log ancient trees on the Woodland Trust's inventory, arguing it would be counterproductive.
