Glorfindel writes: We went to Hobbiton yesterday to check out what was going on but nothing much seems to have changed. Everything’s being irrigated therefore the hedgerows are a bit bushier and the apple trees are fruiting (although the pears aren’t doing so well). Gandalf’s cutting has been restored.

I did think some of the gardens would be planted up by now, with the supposed start date in a few months – it doesn’t cost much to sow a few seeds after all – but I guess they do have to wait for that elusive greenlight. Also they may leave filming Hobbiton towards the end of the shoot. Who knows? Anyway it was a beautiful day and although the Hobbit holes look somewhat dejected it is a lovely spot and we did feel the first tinglings of excitement!