It is said that Charles Dodgson took inspiration for his "Alice in Wonderland" stories during his time in the North East. He would go on long walks through the local parks. Backhouse Park in Sunderland was one of his many haunts. I began exploring the park in autumn 2006.

Leaves float slowly down from tree branches while I walk. Those already collecting on the ground rustle drily underfoot as I walk. I bend down to pick up a chestnut. The sodden earth smells rich, the decaying leafs give off a sharp, mildewy smell. I break the chestnut's spiky capsule and wipe the fruit clean. When I look up a squirrel stops in its tracks and looks me straight in the eye. Eventually the moment passes and the squirrel continues collecting the nuts strewn on the ground. It is no march hare, but I might just follow..