We have received some fantastic news - the pond decking has got the green light to proceed! The work will start this Tuesday with the arrival of a mini digger to create the levels we need and to also push back our creeping mound of vegetation/compost - something that we will be addressing so it doesn't happen again. The Men in Sheds team are raring to go after the prolonged delay and with an upturn in the weather there is still optimism that we might just get it completed by May...fingers crossed!
On Wednesday our volunteering team worked hard on clearing the path behind the maze. The willow was pollarded and the shoots planted alongside the steam, creating natural fencing. This has been done since the project started and it’s incredible to see how the shoots planted over the last couple of years have become so established and strong.
It was the Mayors Variety Show on Saturday and we made up a table at the well attended event where we were treated to a fish and chip supper whilst watching a variety of entertainers take to the stage. Highlights included a memorable performance of "My old man said follow the van...." by a young ten year old girl who was rightly cheered to the rafters as she left the stage. Shuffletunes also put in a good stint of rousing songs and the Carrington family made an impressive ensemble on oboe, cello, piano and percussion. The event was a tremendous success and I'm sure quite a lot of money was raised for the mayor's charities - of which we are one!
This coming week is set to show an improving weather picture so hopefully we can start getting the garden back on track. Our next important date is the 24th March when we shall be visited by the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey together with the Mayor and some councillors. We are putting together a programme of events for the day and will keep everyone informed. The most important thing is to be there on the day! With this event looming it would be good to get the acre looking as tidy and ship shape as possible so as please do come along on Wednesday to help - there's loads to do.
The Corona Virus is obviously concerning all of us and we have received a number of emails concerning activities on the acre. The safety of everyone is our priority and we are following the news closely and responding accordingly. At this juncture we are not cancelling events but would ask everyone to follow the widely publicised guidelines on keeping safe and to take personal responsibility in monitoring your health. If you feel any of the symptoms highlighted in the latest information published then please follow the advice from the NHS and Public Health England. Should we need to take further precautions on the acre we will let you know.
