I like all seasons but there is something special about January. When the weather is good, like it was today, it is a pleasure and a delight to go down to the allotment and dig.

That means that most of my land is ready. The seeds have been ready for ages – as usual I will try to grow something different. But one thing is certain – I shall have to grow more carrots. I have finally managed to grow some decent carrots, alas not enough!

I discovered the delicious forced rhubarb last year so this is another must this year. I have marked the crowns that were not forced last year and all is ready now for some tasty pink rhubarb.

There was just one more job to do in the back garden – cutting out some bamboo canes. I try to do this about once every two years – it gives me new been supports for the allotment. The thin tops and leaves I decided to burn in my new/rescued/appropriated chimenea. It worked and I can use the ash on the allotment. Nothing wasted!