thanks...it was a really enjoyable afternoon

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the reptiles were found at a nature reserve just outside market drayton so just across the shropshire/staffs border...possibly very close to you depending on which part of shropshire you are from. i can't remember ever seeing a reptile while just out walking, although obviously some people do. i have to go out specifically looking for them which means doing a bit of research regarding locations and making sure the conditions are favourable. even then it's quite possible to go without seeing anything.
tim