We're becoming regular visitors to the Greenhill Allotments in Cowgate in Newcastle. It was my first visit this year and it was lovely to see the plot that we spent so long clearing last year now thriving.

Today's task was to clear weeds around some communal areas rather than a specific plot, in advance of task owner Sue having a skip delivered next week to remove a big pile of waste that has accumulated as the allotment users (and GoodGym volunteers) have gradually cleared the area.

After some very warm dry weather, I was relieved to see some good rainfall this week, and I had high hopes that the ground would be softened somewhat and make our task a little easier. It wasn't to be! The ground was as hard as ever, making it virtually impossible to get a spade or fork into it. I think Sue mentioned something about dolomite rock! The only really effective strategy was to get down low and use a spade sideways - I'm sure there's probably a technological horticultural term for this, but I'm just going with sideways digging! The hoes also proved very useful. Despite the elements working against us, the five of us cleared a substantial area around some raised beds, underneath the table and along the perimeter fence. We filled quite a few bags to add to the pile for the skip next week! In fact we were so committed we didn't even get round to eating the bananas that Sue had so thoughtfully left for us.

I think Sue was pleased with the progress we made - you can judge for yourself from the photos! There's definitely more work to be done and Sue is also keen for helpers to wheelbarrow the waste from the far end of the allotment down to the front where the skip can be left. Look out for more Greenhill tasks, or just get in touch if you fancy helping out independently.

Right, I'm off for a lie down!