Inland North Minileague - April

In what is a much anticipated minileague there is plenty of competition but a huge points spread. Quite how Darren Starkey holds both first and second place with such huge scores I dont know but congratulations to him. It is impressive how both reserves he watches have such an even spread of species and scores but kudos certainly deserved for the Black Terns, Ring Ouzels, Ospreys, Wood Sands et al which have boosted both his points and PPB scores through the roof. Despite his best find in April, a Great White Egret, being at Fairburn this patch has been usurped as the leader by St Aidan's which despite the flux over its administration continues to be highly productive.

Wayne & Clare Gillatt at Alkborough move into third place and remain the only patchers in touch with Darren. We have had a few queries as to joint patching and how that works and we will have a think as it is a touch unfair if it is a combined score. If all species are seen by both parties then perhaps that is fairer? Any feedback is gratefully received as it is not an issue which we had really considered. Bill Aspin drops from third to fourth this month. The only other six pointer this month was Pete Antrobus's Great White Egret at The Flashes. More six pointers in May? There must be a Temminck's or two out there!

James Common takes over at the top of the comparative league as his score broke 85% whilst last months leader, Peter Williams drops to third. Phil Woolen hangs onto second and becomes the second member of the 80% club in the minileague. Mark Reeder continues to hold off Jonny Holliday in Yorkshires most heated clash since the last steel city derby.