Bird-wise, the honest answer to paragraph one's question was: no – not quite! We were a crucial fortnight later (this being teachers’ week), and the weather was not always very clement. After a balmy first afternoon, the wind swung round to the northern half of the compass, and stayed there pretty much throughout the rest of the week. So it was squally, chilly and at times very windy. Nevertheless, the islands were as gorgeous as ever, especially when the sun broke through, as it often did. Add in lots of excellent tea shops, coastal walks, boat trips (for seals and the famous gardens on Tresco), and we had a brilliant time.

The bird highlights were very considerable: top of the pile was a stunning 1st year Snowy Owl which arrived after two days of blasting northerlies – the sixth for Scilly and the first since 1972! This was a new life bird for us both – we missed it in Norway in 2000.

As ever, the islands were still ablaze with plant colour, even in late October – a lovely mixture of natives and sub-tropical exotics. The Fascicularia, Bermuda Buttercup and Three-cornered Leek particularly caught our eyes (and nose, in the last case). Royal Fern, Hottentot Fig and Wireplant (Muehlenbeckia complexa) were also noted commonly.

The few insects seen included Red Admiral, Peacock, Speckled Wood and Small Copper.

So, a wonderful and refreshingly British holiday – but maybe we’ll come in spring next time....brrrr!