A Handful of Earth: A Year of Healing and Growing by Barney Bardsley was published in May 2007.

Barney tells how an allotment in Oakwood Lane, Leeds, helped cope with the years of her husband’s terminal illness. There are tremendous strains on long-term carers. But the allotment was able to bring relief, as tending plants and turning the soil is totally absorbing, momentarily pushing anxieties away.

The allotment community was comforting - just by being there, on the same level and not intruding. Swapping plants and discussing bad backs warms the spirit.

The book is divided into twelve monthly chapters, which include a list of seasonal jobs to be done. Full of humour and easy to read, this book is recommended.