We live close to a chalk stream, and in the next village there are watercress beds. The drive down a very steep and narrow lane opens out to reveal large, square beds on the river full of dark green watercress which make an impressive – and to my eyes exotic – sight. 

The watercress is for sale. We help ourselves to a bag from a fridge, and put the money in an honesty box. 

I’m chewing a piece now and enjoying its wonderful heat, much stronger when eaten alone.

This piece was a pleasure to draw. I love the sweep of the stem, the shell or ping pong bat shape of the leaf, the little wavy leaf edges, and the two tiny leaves below one large leaf on many of the stems.

And watercress is said to have many nutritional benefits.