Normally Abingdon enters Britain in Bloom. It did not happen in 2007 because of the floods. It did not happen again in 2011 because of  “administrative changes.”

Petunias now mix with fallen fruit, in this bed, as summer moves on.

Community projects are increasingly important in Britain in Bloom, and not just council show pieces.  This year I have heard of the Carswell School garden, the tree planting on the Ock Valley Walk, and soon there could be a community orchard  – good candidates should Abingdon enter next year.  There could well be others.

A diversion is now in place for the drainage works down East St Helen Street. A large regular hole was cut today next door to Philosophy, the hairdressers. If it had been much wider it would have connected to the Philosophy cellar. Most properties down East St Helen Street have cellars.

A pile of soil and debry now lies nearby – all ready for when the drains are sorted – probably next week – and the contractors can fill the hole in.

It is rumoured, here in West St Helen Street, that the drains of East St Helen Street are clogged with cooking fat. Clearing that will get rid of the puddle that often forms outside the Punchbowl Public House. Anybody who has been splashed by a car near the Punchbowl will probably agree the work is essential, whatever the cause.