

One of the least-appreciated aspects of Britain is its constantly changing seasons. Waking up each morning is to be greeted with fresh sights, sounds and smells. Everything changes on a daily basis: from weather to plants and wildlife. This means the countryside is a continual source of excitement and wonder for those who take the time to look.
While mushrooms are clearly a prime source of interest for fungi-fanatics, there are plenty of other tasty morsels growing and living alongside. Indeed, most mushrooms are very rich and indigestible, so should be treated more as herbs or spices rather than a staple ingredient. What better way to enjoy them, however, than as a morel fondue, a St George’s vol-au-vent or a chanterelle and ramsom quiche?
Read the latest mushroom-hunting news – what is (and isn’t) up, what it looks like and where to find it . . . plus, of course, cooking and preserving tips. Better still, get regular updates in the comfort of your own home by taking up our free subscription - simply drop us a line via the 'Content' page or e-mail danielr.butler@btopenworld.com . . .
Mushroom Newsletter (10 May 2010)Our ancestors relied on wild food from the fields and woods, great great grandfathers were transported for helping themselves, while Mabey, Mears and Fearnley-Whittingstall have introduced a new generation to its charms. So what free delicacies are available now?
AlexandersBritain is blessed with a rich and varied fauna - what seasonal highlights are visible now?
BadgerMushroom Newsletter (29 July 2010)
Porcini are here! Usually I would expect to find this autumn mushroom from about September onwards, but this year they seem to be up a good six weeks early . . .. Mushroom_Newsletter_(Porcini_-_July_2010).PDF
Moths (July 2010)
If one could rank insects by popularity, moths would be a long way from the top. Unlike their beautiful cousins, the butterflies, most are drab and nocturnal. Thus we are most likely to encounter them when a particularly large specimen begins to crash around the lamp by an open window in the dead of night . . .
Ramsoms (May 2010)
While checking out your favourite mushroom woods, keep an eye open for the lush green foliage of wild garlic . . .
Wild Mushroom and Nut Pate
This delicious pate which blends summer mushrooms with hazel nuts is perfect for August picnics . . .
German mushroom knife
These specially imported knives have a hawk's bill stainless steel blade, lanyard hook and measuring scale. The blade's serrated back and inbuilt natural bristle brush allow collectors to clean their finds in the field.