BEFORE – rain-soaked autumn leaves from a line of mature trees covered nearly a third of the width of the paths bordering Alexandra recreation ground, making them slippery and messy-looking. AFTER – leaves now spread around the slender trunks of recently-planted hedgerow saplings, providing mulch which will add nutrients to the soil and hold in moisture ready for the growing season. It was lovely to work in the sunshine with Lou from the Friends of the park, and to spot signs of springtime around us.