Ms N's back yard is overlooked by a magnificent Eucalyptus tree which, combined with the early evening sunshine and blue sky, made it seem more like Australia than Islington. Unfortunately, this type of tree sheds both leaves and bark, so Ms N's yard had a carpet of vegetation that made it difficult for her to sit and enjoy the fresh air.

After a warm welcome, Anne and David checked for stray koalas, quokkas and snakes before getting to work sweeping and bagging the fallen vegetation. Despite a broom malfunction, the task went well and was completed within an hour, allowing us time to also tidy up the potted plants on the garden table.