A note from the editor

It’s an early spring morning; the sun is peering above the horizon and the trees – full of blossom – are swaying in the breeze. As I stare out of my office window, two muntjacs stroll nonchalantly across the lawn, pausing to graze in the flowerbeds. Blissfully unaware of the troubles in the world, they are a poignant reminder of the beauty of nature and how it can be a soothing balm in uncertain times.

Returning to the task in hand, I take a final look at the issue and feel a huge sense of gratitude towards our talented features team. They have excelled at finding just the right mix of positive and meaningful stories this month, with a focus on people who are passionate about preserving the natural world. Our feature Born to Rewild on page 76 (below left) brings together today’s movers and shakers on sustainability and highlights the brilliant work they’re doing to save the environment.

Author and TV gardening presenter Joe Swift is interviewed on page 36 and his honest, self-deprecating, amusing tone is an uplifting tonic. I’ve no doubt that his new series of guides will encourage many to appreciate the meditative power of gardening. Making ceramics also helps to soothe the soul, according to Keith Brymer Jones on page 50 (below right). Famous for his role as a judge in The Great Pottery Throw Down, Keith is at his happiest sitting with a lump of clay on his wheel at home. He emphasises the importance of appreciating the simple things in life. Along with ‘giving back’, it’s a good mantra to abide by and if we all did it we’d live in a more peaceful, better world. See our tribute to the people of Ukraine on page 96.