Another successful Saturday at Greenhill Allotments, as two GoodGymers set to work clearing a plot of weeds and other random things like glass jars and bits of garden tools. The mattock was put to good use on the hard ground. One thing Greenhill Allotments has is a good variety of tools. Today's other tool of the day was a nameless one has lots of pointy bits that you stick in the ground and twist, wrapping the weeds around the end.

Check out the before and after photographs. It'll probably take one more visit to clear the rest of the plot, hopefully after it has rained a bit to soften the ground.

Three intrepid GoodGymers made their way to Greenhill Allotments to help clear one of the allotments to make it more appealing and hopefully get someone in to take it over.

It was no small task and the roots seemed determined to defeat us. Forks, hoes and a weird twisty weeding thing were put to work.

A lot of effort and only one minor health and safety incident when a root gave way which led to a flying fist and an unlucky nose…. I forgive you!

Brilliant effort by all and we’ll definitely be making a return trip.

This morning’s visit to Magret’s allotment marked a small but satisfying milestone—we finally finished clearing her plot! And just in time, too, as the sun seemed determined to melt us. Thankfully, our trusty new wheelbarrow made light(er) work of hauling weeds and trimmings, even if we were dripping by the end.

It was lovely to see that Magret has already started planting in the areas we cleared on earlier visits. Check out the photos —it’s always rewarding to know the effort is paying off.

As we dug, pulled, and sweated it out, we uncovered a surprising shared memory: Debs and I discovered we’d spent time in Jack’s hometown. That gave us a lovely excuse to pause and reminisce about Chocfest, Miss B’s charming tea rooms, and the irresistible cakes at the community café in the country park. Nothing like a little nostalgia to take your mind off the heat!

Midway through the session, Magret dropped by with Sue to chat. It was heartwarming to hear how much she’s enjoying having access to the plot—it’s clear it means a lot to her, and that’s what makes these sessions so worthwhile.

After what must be six—or maybe seven—visits, we’ve finally cleared the full length of her plot. But the job’s not quite over yet. There are still more plots in need of attention and Sue has plans to strim and mow them in preparation… and so, spades at the ready—until next time!