On a lovely crisp sunny Sunday I joined Friends of Peartree Green Nature Reserve in their monthly litter pick. It was definitely a real pick and mix of items we found in and around the green and nature reserve. Strange finds include a calor gas bottle, laughing gas cannisters, smashed car headlight, pram and a rather helpful shopping trolley. Still it was lovely to see the first bumblebees out searching for food and listening to the birds enjoying the start of Spring.

Wow we had a great crazy collection of finds this morning as we joined the Chessel Bay Spring litter pick organised by Hawthorns Wildlife Centre and the local rangers. They arrange two litter picks a year so we don't disturb the wildlife especially the wading birds who use the mud flats as a valuable food source during the winter. Chris, Sarah, Stephanie and Lauren were soon joined by Wilson, Kathryn and her daughter. Sad to see how much waste is either washed up or thrown away by the local litter louts. Some fantastic finds: Chris's children's cycle helmet modelled by our resident Can Queen; Lauren ; Sarah's great shoe collection; Kathryn's daughter had a wonderful haul of dog toys and Wilson's fabulous flat cap find. Plenty of polystyrene nurdle nodules for Stephanie to obsess over. A lovely couple of hours in the surprisingly warm March sunshine. Many hands make light work.

We were back this evening to continue tackling the street planter in Lordshill to make it plantable for the local elderly residents.

We are now down to the nitty gritty of stump and root removal so came armed with many shovels and forks. The roots are incredibly strong - burying directly down into the concrete walls! We made good progress with teamwork going in to remove the largest stump / root system which Chris spent most of the evening clearing.

Progreas is definitely being made and we look forward to returning soon

Popped back to help close down the Toes In The Water show in time to hear the last few stomping songs by Southampton Ukele Band. What a great success it was with some amazing pieces of artwork, lovely pieces for sale and raising money for the Friends of the River Itchen Estuary. It was a real team effort as I joined the friendly volunteers. Many hands make light work.

A lovely couple of hours helping Rachel and all the team set up for the fabulous Toes In The Water festival at St Denys Boat Club. Ashleigh and I got the bunting up first and then provided a lift and shift service for the stall holders and musicians. Back again later for more fun closing down after the rousing music has finished.