Hilary Seabrook - writer, podcaster, musician

Having a dream is great. Working hard to make it come true is greater. Last night, I saw The Shires move the O2 audience (in what will always be the Millennium Dome to me) with tracks from their album Brave and a great cover of Dolly Parton's Islands in the Stream . It was extraordinary, having seen the band perform some of the same songs at Wavendon's Stables theatre and then at the Rhythms of the World festival. Their music filled the O2 arena. Social media comments would indicate that they acquired some new fans from those who'd paid to see The Corrs. I know how much work Chrissie, Ben and the rest have put in. They're musically talented but - more than that - they're dedicated. Long may the rise of The Shires continue as they prove how Brave they really are.

I hasten to add that when I was Saturday girl here (back in 1979), it was a music shop, rather than a beauty salon.

The untended allotments on Gaping Lane have been left alone for at least two years and the unintended consequence is a riot of nature. Overgrown shrubbery and vegetables left by the previous tenants are now being enjoyed by lots and lots of birds. The noise of chirping is quite extraordinary. The other side of the path is a seemingly little-used sports field with beautiful grass but I prefer the overgrown part. Location: Old Park Road,Hitchin,United Kingdom