Under cloudless skies and with the temperature approaching 30 degrees, I gave the grass in Ms M’s back garden a quick trim with the mower then loaded the clippings into her brown bin for composting – before retreating back into the shade! When I left to collect my bike, I also pulled up a few weeds from the driveway and had a chat with Ms M while admiring her sweet pea plants. Once this latest spell of extreme weather passes, she'll be able to enjoy her outside space knowing everything is neat and tidy.

Armed with buckets and united in our determination to protect 350 saplings from extremely dry weather, I joined a feisty gang of volunteers gathered in Ladywell Fields beside the River Ravensbourne where a new hedgerow was recently planted. We hauled water from the river and carried it to pour on the thirsty roots of the young trees, ensuring they can continue to thrive despite the drought. With no rain forecast for a while, next watering session is scheduled for Saturday 28 June.

Turns out Ms Y and I share a love of shortbread biscuits - and even better if they're dunkable. It was a pleasure to fetch a few items of shopping from the local supermarket to help Ms Y next time she's ready for a drink and snack.

What a welcome sight it was when a 1000 litre water bowser was transported to Ladywell Fields, making it easier to give thirsty hedgerow saplings a much needed drink. The extremely dry weather so far this spring has meant that special efforts have been necessary to ensure the survival of the hedgerow, consisting of 350 young trees planted by volunteers in January. The Lewisham council parks team has promised a re-filled bowser next weekend too - and the hedge is looking leafier and healthier.