Wonders captured on camera from Whitchurch this August

The first day of September’s arrival represents the perfect time to get ready for sweater weather.

As strange as it sounds with the weather still so unseasonably dry, we are now closing on autumn and the start of a brand new season.

The author Dominic Riccitello once wrote: “I used to love September, but now it just rhymes with remember.”

Perhaps he is right.

Upon the passing of each summer we all reflect on what has gone and what will not be ever again while turning toward the uncertainty of winter.

Certainly we are facing a winter of hard times and unheard of in its challenges since the dark days of the 1970s.

OTHER NEWS:

• Motorist banned from driving after committing offence in Whitchurch
• Scarecrows out in force in Wem to raise money for charity
• Rising energy costs and inflation blamed as Shropshire Council predicts £4.1m overspend this year

Spiralling energy bills coupled with an increase in food costs will mean many people will face a winter like none before this year.

Meanwhile strikes and staff shortages have rendered many areas without public transport while rubbish is piled high outside homes and on the streets.

In times like this it would be natural to get depressed and angry.

However instead we should all take a breath.

We are fortunate to live in one of the most peaceful parts of the country so we should make the most of that tranquility and venture out to explore.

After all, the world seems a lot less miserable after a walk and some fresh air and it also gives you chance to reflect on the challenges on the horizon.

Arcade game fun. Picture by Paul Cheshire.

Small tortoiseshell butterfly on the marigolds. Picture by Steve Beech.

The Red Cow Pub. Picture by Tim Dickenson.

A dunnock. Picture by Steve Beech.

Lights and shadow. Picture by Tim Dickenson.

A busy bee. Picture by Brian Roberts.

Up, up and away at Sleap Airfield. Picture by Brian Roberts.

Two feasting wasps. Picture by Michael Anthony Adams-Wade.