It does seem ridiculous to me that a date set in stone is regarded as the
start of spring. Certain people say that summertime begins on June 21st, and
yet mid-summer's day is the 24th of June; 3 days later.

Spring seems to get going around mid-February when the snowdrops, crocuses
and daffodils are starting to become visible. Summer could be taken as
around mid-May, when all the trees are finally in leaf and the countryside
takes on that summer look. Autumn could be regarded as starting around
mid-September, when the first leaf colour change occurs. And winter starting
in mid-November when all the leaves have fallen and the countryside has that
stark look.

If any dates for the seasons have to be used at all, then use the changing
moods of the countryside.

The equinox was on the 20th (wasn't it?)
_______________________
Nick G
Worcester
45m amsl
"Philip Eden" philipATweatherHYPHENukDOTcom wrote in message
...
Was very disappointed in the BBC presenter yesterday (21st) who
a) seemed to think it was the spring equinox, and
b) seemed to think that this conferred the title "Official First Day
of Spring" on the date.

I know a few people like to think that spring begins at the vernal
equinox even though this is merely an astronomic artefact; many
disagree. Whatever, it ain't official. No way.

Philip Eden