Purple Emperor Hunt – Fermyn Wood (Bryce Hanlon – BB Society Treasurer)
On the 1st July, a very warm and overcast morning, a group of our members met up opposite
the Round House in Sudborough where BB lived for many years. Once assembled, we drove
up to Fermyn Wood to meet up with our butterfly man, Doug Goddard, who was leading the
hunt.
We spent a very enjoyable 2 or 3 hours walking along the ride and saw many different
bu􀆩erflies but, unfortunately, the Purple Emperor was noticeable by his absence.
I have included a photograph of a Purple Emperor that I took on a previous visit, hopefully to
whet your appetite for next year.
A big thank you to Doug for guiding us, to Trevor Pywell for the photo of the members taken
in Fermyn Wood and to those members who turned up on the day.
Bryce Hanlon
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The 2026 BB Society AGM has now taken place.
An enjoyable day was had by those who attended this years AGM at a brand new venue for the BB Society, Aldwincle Village Hall.
The usual society business was conducted during the morning followed by lunch and then an interesting talk by Barry Grantham, a long standing member of the society, who has written extensively for Sky Gypsy and other publications.
Members enjoyed the opportunity to purchase some BB pictures, book’s, society merchandise and the usual 'BB' auction.
A delicious luncheon and refreshments were provided.
This event as always was popular with members, and their guests It was pleasing to see so many members, old and new, attending.
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The BB Society’s 2025 Annual General Meeting was held on the 12th April at Boughton House, Northamptonshire.
Boughton House is one of Britains greatest stately homes, and was the setting for one of BB’s most iconic books BRENDON CHASE, 1944.
In addition to the usual Society business, there were some first class speakers, representing the legacy and contribution that BB made through his efforts in literature and conservation around the natural world, as well as a reflection of the 25years since the Society was formed.
There was an exhibition of BB works, as well as the opportunity to purchase some BB pictures, book’s and society merchandise. A delicious luncheon and refreshments were provided.
This event as always was popular with members, and their guests It was pleasing to see so many new members attending.