June 2011
I see Dacorum Council have painted the hill road from Berkhamsted to Potten End with hideous yellow lines. Why don’t they just ban parking along the whole length of the hill with a notice at either end instead of defacing a pleasant country road. Here in Piccotts End we try to keep the place looking attractive with plantings under the village signs. The only problem is that plants need water. I’ve chosen succulents like geraniums and begonias that can survive dry conditions. Even then a weekly trip with a filled watering can in the boot is required.

Last year’s flaming June has been replaced by rain, rain and yet more rain. We went to the Gaddesden Craft & Food Fair. It rained. We went to an open air concert. It rained. This means there is certain to be a drought order any time now. The last time was about four years ago when water restrictions were brought in about a week before the heavens opened. The odd thing is that cat washes were allowed to carry on, with their high pressure Karchers, while those of us at home with our low pressure hose pipes were not.

Can the papers come any earlier? This morning they arrived at ten to 6. That must be a record. Well done to Parry’s for providing such a top quality service. Their paper ‘boy’s’  Christmas tip (he’s all of 40) is already in the bag!