I went out for a walk at lunch time but it was short-lived. Although the sun was shining brightly it was deceiving and it was very cold.

As I turned down the steps towards Oak Alley I noticed the Candlemas Lantern still sitting on the grass. Every February on Candlemas candles, covered by an iron lantern, are lit to warm the ground for the new season of growth and staff and students encircle it and sing a hymn.

My understanding is that Candlemas celebrates the presentation of Jesus at the temple, 40 days after his birth, and I have managed to find nothing of significance to explain the origins of the ritual that takes place at Camphill Blair Drummond.