The Great Rothbury Plant-up on 14th April exceeded our expectations - we had 24 volunteers and six young children, who put in over 100 hours of volunteer work! Despite the cold weather in the morning, we were joined by families and representatives from the Allotments (including its new chairman), the Guides, the Waitrose Community Team, and Browick Orchard and Friarscroft Wood. Major pluses were the occasional pitstop subsidised by Waitrose and some home-cooking, and the discovery of a century-old George V penny!

The new Rothbury Park planting beds had to be dug over to prepare for the hundreds of plants, which ranged from tiny hellebores, larger hebes and a substantial daphne. There were some lovely grasses, scented plants like lavender and rosemary, and - once the spring bulbs are planted in the autumn - there will be year-round colour. Unfortunately, the rainwater tank seemed to run dry, but the Community Hall gallantly supported the longest hose ever.

Talking of water, our summer quality testing on the River Tiffey started early this year, so that the results were available before the annual Duck Race.

At Friarscroft Wood, the team is working hard to clear the final mound of rubbish from the public wood, and looking forward to seeing the new wildflower meadow develop in the orchard section. The pontoon is a great hit with the team and passers-by, who can now spot the tadpoles that were released back into the pond after their captivity.

Greening Wymondham will also be welcoming those completing Wymondham Nature Group's bird-watching tours on Saturday 16th and 17th May - with refreshments in the woods' meadows.