In May 1993 there was a lot of local colour in the mushroom scene as evidenced in notes of the time. Many local hostelries seemed to host a lot of mushroom related anecdotes - Harry Hoots, Mary Anns Bar, the Drumsill House Hotel. There was talk of a new Sylvan Spawn depot opening at Tullygoonigan. Also making the news was talk of green mould, and the phenomenon of mis-shapen mushrooms was being very closely watched.
Jumping to May 2003 green mould was also the theme of a David Seaby science article that month. There were photographs from the Cormac Mckenna Memorial Cup day- which raised over £15,000 for several charities. There was also a Amycel farm walk write-up by the ever irrepressible Carl Bozicek.
In May 2013 a strange wee note stood out - “A chap from Ireland working north of Aberdeen in April this year reported that snow ploughs were being used to clear the roads of dust.” Also apparently the blackthorn came out into full bloom in early May 2013. Country folk say that this will give an accurate forecast of cold and wet weather for the following six to eight weeks, with the odd warm day.
Much the same conditions seem to pertain this year.
