EVENTS

Don’s Walk: Yellow Star-of-Bethlehem (Gagea lutea)

Leader: Falgunee Sarker Date: Saturday, 14th March 2026 Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (14:00 – 16:00 hrs)

Aim of the Walk

To find, identify, and count the Gagea lutea (Yellow Star-of-Bethlehem) shoots in flower. This walk follows the sandy woodland path along the River Tees used to record this plant by the late Don Griss.

Meeting Point & Directions

Location: Low Coniscliffe village, Darlington. GPS: NZ2908 Note: We are NOT gathering at Abbey Road.

Parking: Enter the village from the A67 and continue until the road divides. Take the left-hand road and park at the end.

Meeting Spot: There is a notice board marked DBITAA CAR PARK; we will meet here.

Route Details

Terrain: This is a 2-hour linear walk. The path is narrow and uneven under a canopy of trees.

Safety: Please take care of exposed tree roots and stay with the group. Inform the leader if you need to leave the walk early.

Description of the Plant

Keep an eye out for these specific features:

Leaves: A single basal leaf per plant with a unique acuminate hooded tip and three distinct veins.

Bracts: 2–3 leaf-like bracts are present on the flowering shoot.

Flowers: Yellow-green tinged flowers featuring a conspicuous green stripe on the back of the tepals.

After the Walk

At the end of our walk, you are most welcome to join us at the Baydale Beck pub for a cup of tea or coffee and a comfort break.

What to Bring

Strong walking boots and walking sticks (essential for uneven paths).

Suitable wet weather clothing.

A drink for the trail.

Contact Information

If you have any questions, please contact Falgunee:

Mobile: 07763 740 718

Email: [email protected]

ENJOY!