Timber, timber everywhere at Hampton Court Palace. Some extraordinary timber in its built environment and historical objects (some more palatable than others!). It's humbling to reflect on the many ancient trees that have lived longer lives than these objects and buildings, but also the generations of productive trees that have been grown and felled to make way for the next generation, and make treasured objects and places. Grow trees. Use Wood. For our future.

Look at this not-so-little beauty! A European Hornet, we think. Vespa crabro. Pictured recently at Whitney Sawmills, this little gem could have been turning the oak sawmill building into material for its nest. Note: If you spot an Asian Hornet (black body, yellow legs), you can share its location using the Asian Hornet Watch app. In addition to housing for wasps, Whitney Sawmills provides building materials across the UK. Based in Herefordshire, it is well established as a leading British sawmill, supplying fresh sawn oak and Douglas fir beams for construction as well as air- and kiln-dried timber including oak, ash, sweet chestnut, sycamore, cherry, elm and poplar to furniture makers, artists and beyond. The vast, vast majority of its timber is homegrown, meaning important funds flow back to those people and business that manage our nation's woodlands. Put simply; Grow trees. Use wood. For our future.

Top secret! This year's release of Wood Culture: The Journal of Woodland Heritage is shaping up to be a remarkable issue. Out this winter! Get your copy by becoming a member of Woodland Heritage. Plus you get access to all back issues too!