Five of us — Cherian and me from GoodGym, plus three of the regular Stephens House & Gardens volunteers — got stuck into a fairly substantial job at the Friday morning gardening session.

Our task was down in the Dell, where an area of around 30 square metres needed to be completely cleared of grass. We first marked out the triangular-shaped plot and then set about removing the turf.

Armed with sharp spades, shovels, rakes and a wheelbarrow, we gradually stripped the whole area back to bare soil. It was pretty physical work, so the occasional pause for a chat in the lovely sunshine was very welcome.

As often seems to happen at Stephens House, the subject of celebrities came up — helped along when one rather well-known face happened to stroll past us. He shall remain nameless, although he’s known for playing a particularly London character!

Gus supervised proceedings, briefly considering getting involved before deciding that watching the squirrels in the trees was a much better use of his time.

After about two hours, we’d cleared the whole area and left it ready for the next stage of the project.

Then it was back for the traditional and very welcome tea and cake. (happy birthday, Alan! )

Another satisfying morning helping the regular volunteers look after this wonderful community garden.