Tidying the shed is satisfying and can be an ongoing winter pastime. The goal is space so get rid of anything you can, hang tools on walls and think cleverly about other methods of storage.

Allotmenteers, do check the security of your shed as during the winter months you may not be there so often. For smallholders it’s worth taking the time to check that locks on gates and doors around the plot are secure.

On a bright day apply a wood preservative to gates, fences, sheds and outdoor furniture to prevent them from rotting and to help them look better.

It won’t be long until the days start lengthening so do also take this time to put your feet up before the growing year starts again.

If you get bored trying to relax then why collect together a pile of seed catalogues and a planner and start dreaming of spring.