it is one of our native orchids. Dactylorhizza possibly but cant remember which one. they are lovely.

And protected so you may not pick them.

Yes Dactylorhiza, there are several different ones - we've got D. purpurella (the northern spotted orchid) growing at the bottom end of the veg. garden

From your location, Aviva, it could be Northern Marsh Orchid but all are variable and difficult to tell apart from a photo. Is it toxic, probably as sheep and horses etc know better than to eat it.

thanks everyone, re wild purple orchid - had never seen this unusual colour in the wild before . . .