These magnificent horses – Murdoch and Joey – from Operation Centaur, part of Royal Parks, are harrowing the ground in preparation for the planting of native wildflower seeds to create five ‘mini-meadows’ across Clapham Common next spring.

The five areas identified are – the area beside Holy Trinity Church (pictured), opposite the road beside the old fire station, a strip along Westside, a section opposite Mount Pond and another near the Windmill Pub.

The aim is to improve bio-diversity on the Common and is part of a wider plan to introduce more naturalised areas across the Common. The wildflowers and long grass will attract more insects, especially butterflies and bees, and small rodents.

This initiative is led by Lambeth Council in partnership with CCMAC and funded by a levy on events on the Common.