Stella and Jane Barnes joined with other volunteers from Friends of Rochester Churchfields and Esplanade (FoRCE) for their first 2–hour gardening session in 2026.
After recent frosts and rain, we were fortunate it was a sunny but fresh morning, ideal for getting outside and gardening. A short reel had been produced in early January showing the developed areas and included our Soroptimist rose planted in the Sensory Garden and in full bloom.
On arrival various tasks were allocated including working on the newly planted hedgerows, and litter picking. We opted to clear the areas at the side of the steep, flight of cobbled steps ( more than 90..!!) at Churchfields. Armed with tools, and ‘Great British Spring 
Clean’ bags we set about our task clearing weeds and filling 3 bags. The plan is to paint the handrails on the steps when the overgrown areas are cleared as part of the community improvements.
Whilst busy working, we were serenaded by some Jenny Wrens and Robins. An enjoyable and productive morning and looking forward to the February session.