Many months ago, the AHS were approached by Councillor Blackman to garden at the junction of Blake Hall Road/ Blake Hall Crescent / Belgrave Road, on the Lakehouse Estate.

The area, adjacent to the bus stop was regularly being dug up by Thames Water to create a drainage system. The houses next to the site were constantly being flooded.

I went about rounding up a group of volunteers from the Lakehouse Estate to garden the plot. I received a response from 18 people who were interesting in helping.

After much negotiation and paperwork the plot was handed over to us by Simon Stodel, Neighbourhood Engagement and Education Officer of the London Borough of Redbridge.

On Saturday 20 April, thirteen volunteers met at the site. We prepared the plot, sowed the seeds, provided by the LBR and planted a variety of plants brought along by the volunteers.

All in all, a successful morning’s work.

Rosemarie Coffey, Lakehouse Estate and AHS Gardeners.