• A FEW weeks ago I wrote a letter about the disappearance of herons from the southern end of the lake in Regent’s Park, (Where have the herons gone? January 24).

This resulted in a small flurry of correspondence which prompts me to send in this poem which I wrote when herons were numerous in the park:

WATCHERS

A heron on the bank in motionless poise,
gaze fixed on the water with rapt intent.

From the bridge I watch and wait –
your silvery stillness, your elegant shape.

Will you swoop or dive,
spread your wings and take flight?

Shall I see you in action –
a rare and wondrous sight?

But no, unrewarded, I move on, resigned,
thwarted by patience so much greater than mine.

FRANCES LEE
NW1