His war involves one on one combat, necessary stealth and specialist expertise. Impervious to danger, fearless in the face of inclement weather, his frontline is the neglected herbaceous borders and his rank is the highest in the horticultural world - guerilla gardener.

Richard became a guerilla gardener when he decided to cultivate some neglected garden areas in London. Before he knew it, his war against the neglect of space had gathered pace and an army of trowel wielding toilers were on hand to assist.

Via his guerilla gardening blog, the word has spread with volunteers converting patches of fading filth into blooming fauna all over Europe even though it’s a thankless task.

Fight a war to create a democracy and you’re all over the news, but try and create a shrubbery well nobody bats an eyelid….