A BUMPER crop of bluebells has begun to bloom across the county.

The mild winter followed by a warm and sunny period have meant perfect conditions for it and other woodland flowers.

Andy Foley, National Trust ranger at Badbury Clump near Faringdon, said the time is right for a springtime woodland walk.

Yesterday he said: “They’re not quite ready yet – they could do with a little bit more sun.

“By the time you read this, with a bit of nice weather, they should be in full bloom.”

Bluebells always grow beneath trees in broadleaf woods, and will stay in flower until the trees come fully into leaf in mid-May.

Mr Foley added: “We always ask people not to pick the bluebells, if you pick one it won’t grow again.”

National Trust regional head of gardens, Mike Buffin, added: “Stand at the edge of a bluebell wood, breathe in deeply, take in the delicate sweet scent and marvel at one of nature’s true spectacular events.”