The Darnford Brook flows down from the Longmynd through Ratlinghope to Bridges where it joins the Onny, through lovely old growth woodland which provides the perfect habitat for these water loving birds.
The valley is managed for wildlife, with many nest boxes for the two types of flycatcher that return to the woodlands in spring, the Pied and Spotted Flycatcher, and I hope to see these later in the year. But for now a perfectly positioned bench by the footpath overlooking some rocks in the stream which are evidently favourite dipper perches, beckoned. It seemed a good idea to sit in the dappled sun shining through the still naked branches of the trees, and hope that the bird in question would grace me with an appearance.