This morning’s mission saw Fi and myself make our way over to Southmead to visit Ms C and her adorable pooch, Stella, and help to tackle her overgrown garden.

The task looked mammoth but fortunately for us Ms C’s brother and his wife had turned up with a heavy duty strimmer and lawn mower and had already started to clear up the back.

So Fi and I agreed to tackle the big weeds adorning the front garden, whilst keeping an eye on Stella who was keen on going for an adventure in the neighbourhood.

Despite the threat of rain, we suffered no more than some drizzle which kept us cool whilst we worked and chatted with Ms C and generally made a big fuss of Stella.

Fi and her ancient but trusty secateurs made light work of the bush, which by the time we’d removed the weeds around and within it, was looking resplendent.

Spurred on by a cup of tea from Ms C and much tail wagging from Stella, we moved round to the side of the house to weed the pathway there, whilst the brother strimmed and cut the grass in the front garden.

The transformation was remarkable and Ms C was clearly thrilled. Stella was not so sure as she had enjoyed hiding in the long grass but was polite enough not to comment.

A really enjoyable mission, great to catch up with Fi so it was big smiles and thumbs up all round!