The allotment has seen little change over the past few weeks with the exception of the rhubarb, which is now beginning to bring a small blaze of colour against a still wintry backdrop with its red new shoots.

Originating from Siberia, where it grew wild on the banks of the river Volga, rhubarb is hardy enough to get going despite the chilly weather we have been experiencing lately and I am happy to see that it has spread further over the patch of ground.

Elsewhere I have been preparing the beds for this year’s crops, adding compost and raking over the soil. In one bed I have already planted several rows of broad beans which I hope will start to make an appearance now that the temperatures are becoming a little warmer. The biggest threat to the any newly planted seeds at the moment is the fox, which leaves paw-prints and holes in the soft soil where it has been looking for worms.

This year I have chosen three common varieties of potato to plant later in the month; Charlotte, Maris Piper and Pink Fir Apple. The latter have always managed to do well so far on the plot. Last year a couple of heritage varieties were destroyed by the deluge in late spring so this year I shall plant most of my potatoes in the deepest raised bed.

What I am now looking forward to is seeing the daffodils and hyacinths in flower, not only for their colour but also for their sweet scent and a feeling that spring has fully arrived.