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To the Congregational Hall on Saturday morning for the monthly Wivenhoe Farmer’s Market. The musty smell inside sums up village halls, as the not so fragrant @AnnaJCowen remarked to me. No worries - I rather like the aroma of history giving you a sense of nasal perspective.

For those not wanting some eau de Congregational Hall, thankfully most of the stalls were situated outside. Early summer is upon us and now is the time to bask in the great outdoors and stock up on all that winter veg.

The lovely, lovely herb man (steady) was incredibly helpful as ever, advising us on some rocket action back at base. If we’re not dining out on fine rocket and parmesan salad by the end of the week, then there will be a rocket around these parts heading perhaps where it shouldn’t.

The Colne Soap Makers (seriously) were equally charming. I took advantage of the local produce and stocked up the for the bathroom cabinet. The girl surprisingly scrubs up rather well.

Transition Town Wivenhoe were once again offering the seed swap service, as well as many other green and great activities. I’m pleased to report that rocket aside, our own seeds sourced at the last Farmer’s Market from TTW have transformed the garden. Give it another month and I’ll have courgettes that will make middle-aged ladies lustful.

It was slightly disappointing not to find the farmer’s basics of fruit and veg indoors at the Congregational Hall. Only tomatoes were added to the basket. No worries - Mr Irish Soda Bread Man very kindly made up for the oversight; a trip down to Cansdale and Ross soon put us right with our five a day.

The next Wivenhoe Farmer’s Market takes place on Saturday 18th June in the Congregational Hall. To rent a stall, call 01206 367776, or to volunteer help, call 01206 826226.

More lusty courgettes, less musty smells.

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