Six of the team either ran, walked, cycled or drove to Linfield House to to lend a helping hand and improve the Richmond garden's appearance. Our primary objective was to tidy up the space and tackle the persistent weed problem.

My team today consisted of

• Duncan plus Olly, his cousins son who was shadowing Duncan for 2 days of work experience ( life changing for Olly !! )
• Gillybean
• John
• Daisy
• Ricky

The team enthusiastically undertook various tasks to transform the garden. First and foremost we had been asked to clear the unsightly dead leaves in a large bed just near the entrance to the garden whilst carefully leaving the green shoots underneath to grow again. Once this was done the team moved to other areas of the garden which, overall, was looking overgrown and in need of some tlc. Gill was particularly good a taking a deep dive into the back of the undergrowth armed with her pruners pulling out armfuls of debris. Olly was also a great help using his height to reach and remove dead branches of the cordyline palm tree. John did a stirling job sweeping up and filling the green bin, also assisted by Ricky. Daisy was particularly great at weeding the pond area.

I also took a moment to look at the courtyard garden that we have previously worked on and admired all the plants and shrubs that are in full bloom. Particularly pretty and fragrant was the honeysuckle featured in the photos.

With plenty of social banter about subjects ranging from Ricky's proposed social event in September, Duncan's dream camper van or Daisy's practical joke on her husband together with Ollys work experience with Duncan, it was a great atmosphere whilst achieving a lot in a short amount of time.

With a very much appreciated box of chocolates given to us, we always feel appreciated at our visits at Linfield. The collective efforts of the group tonight will, in my opinion, have a significant impact on the residents at the home. The tidying and weeding activities not only enhanced the garden's visual appeal but also provided a safer and more comfortable space for the residents to enjoy.

Next week we are meeting at Worthing Leisure Centre - hope to see you there.

Have a great week.

Julia xx