Thanks for your comments.
Ruggero,
The Met Office here declared 2014 as the warmest year on record, only to repeat the claim for 2015. Looks like 2016 could make it three in a row. Temperatures in the mid teens this month. I think the Chinese have taken this hoax too far.
My previously latest recorded Adder was mid November. Mid November this year and we were still turning up these...
With regards to your difficult choice between Thailand or England for Christmas;
If it helps, think of all those tropical beaches - warm, crystal clear sea - forests full of unusual and exotic reptiles - strange cultures and customs - delicious new food and of course, warm beer! Look forward to seeing you soon.