‘The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is now.’

From BBC iPlayer: ‘The Chinese are famous for their proverbs, or yànyŭ: words of wisdom gathered from literature or uttered by famous philosophers over the centuries. And, although ancient in some cases, many of these proverbs still provide valuable guidance in the modern age.’

Meaning: ‘Don’t put things off. If you want success and growth in the future, the best time to act is now. And read in a literal sense, this proverb has added poignancy. We need to act today to protect our planet from the effects of pollution, before it’s too late.’

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Rosendale Allotments Association (RAA) is being held at 6.45pm on Tuesday 24 April 2018 at the Rosendale Community Hall, Peabody Cottages, SE24 9DR. The agenda will be published in the forthcoming weeks.

The RAA relies on members to be actively involved in the management of the allotments. All members, new or established, are very welcome to join the committee.

Nominations for committee membership and any resolutions should be received by the Secretary on, or before 10am on Tuesday 3 April, either sent by email or handed in at the Stores. Committee nomination forms for 2018 are available in the Stores.