March 22, 2013, and below-freezing temperatures test the hardiness of new life on the moors above Silsden. This time last year temperatures were in the early 20sC, shorts were being worn and it was warm enough to lunch in the garden. Daffodils and celandines had bloomed in January. This year, at the equinox (March 20), there are precious few signs and sounds of spring. 

 A wintry scene in Snowden Ghyll wood (above) and at Tar Topping (below).