MUSHROOMS THRIVING !

           MUSHROOM'S

    " are MAGIC this Season! "

      THE wet summer may have meant a shortfall in many

      crops , but one foodstuff is in abundance.."MUSHROOMS."

      After the poor weather over most of May to August, 

      followed by the recent hot spell, wild fungi are flourishing.

      Foragers spurred on by celebrity chefs are already 

      searching for field mushrooms and other delicacies.

      Pete Brash, of the National Trust,said " This is just the

      start of the traditional mushroom hunting season, I imagine

      if the warm weather continues it could be a bumper year."

      The Health Protection Agency has warned however,that

      some species can make people sick and advised foragers

      to seek expert advice. Some varieties are so toxic that they 

      can prove fatal and toxins are generally NOT destroyed by

      cooking.

      Nicholas Evans, author of ' The Horse Whisperer', had to

      have a kidney transplant after consuming an inedible 

      variety in Scotland.

      Ray Tantram who leads foraging expeditions in Mole Valley,

      Surrey, warned people against picking anything they are

      not completely sure of.

                "STICK TO WHAT YOU KNOW !"

    I personally find this variety, pictured above very tasty.
    " Psilocybe Cyanescens " They make a beautiful pot of tea,
    and afterwards the stresses of the day just flow away.They
    make a stroll in the country very relaxing, you tend to 
    notice things you may not have spotted before. The simple 
    act of listening to music takes on a world of it's own, the 
    permanent grin on your face gives you  a 'magical'
    feeling...................

     But seriously, be careful what you forage and make

     sure you have a good Friend with you ! Be Safe !