It has been a while since we have visited the allotment at Swanswell Medical Centre. We are trying to get it ready for patients to use it as a socialising space, while getting a bit of exercise. Last time we were away for more than a week, the allotment exploded with weeds, so we were a little nervous when we arrived. Luckily the membranes we put down last time had kept a lot of the plantlife away, but some had been battered about in the recent windy weather.

Rachel got stuck in straightaway, finding pins, bricks and slabs of concrete to weigh the membrane down, while Rob dug up the weeds that had managed to fight back. Jacqueline and Fiona created a human assembly line, throwing the weeds to each other until they reached the compost heap. It might not have been the most efficient method, but they had a lot of fun!

While moving the membranes around, we found a frog that was happily hopping around the allotment. After the obligatory pictures, we gently encouraged it to go somewhere a little safer.

With the membranes firmly down and the stinging neetles removed, we decided to call it a day. Each time we have come back, so have the weeds. Because of this, we have decided to visit more often. Hopefully with increased visits, we can get it into shape in no time!