Another visit to the former Clifton Hospital site, and I spotted this cluster of new leaves on one of the trees.
I once saw a nature video describing tree buds bursting into life. It described how the buds were an effective protective shell, but that when the buds open, a race began with the local insect life that feeds on the leaves, and the leaves opening quickly to allow photosynthesis to take place so the tree can grow.
That would explain why this cluster of what had shortly before been buds were well on the way to being fully open.
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
It has been a beautiful day today, with temperature up to 17C, which will give a real boost to all the new growth.
Ian