The summer it forgot to rain

QUESTION What was the longest dry spell in Britain?

Droughts are a feature of our weather cycle, with one every five to ten years.

A meteorological drought is defined as at least 15 consecutive days where there is less than 0.2mm (0.008in) of rain.

over the past two centuries, one of the most notable was the Long Drought of 1854-60, which was due to a run of dry winters.

the 1975-76 drought is the benchmark against which all others are compared.

It saw the lowest 16-month rainfall in England and Wales since records began in 1766.

Less than 65 per cent of the average rainfall fell from May 1975 to August 1976, with some parts of southern England receiving less than half.

It coincided with a heatwave from late June 1976. In August 1976, a Drought Bill was rushed through Parliament, imposing restrictions on water usage. the drought broke on August 29, 1976, just days after Denis howell was given the newly created job of Minister for Drought.

It was followed by a very wet september and october.

Colin Barron, London E12.

QUESTION How do the Japanese eradicate Japanese knotweed?

WHILE the previous answer detailed its control in Japan by native predators and the environment, it did not mention that it can be eaten by humans.

Young shoots, growing tips and unfurled leaves are edible and taste of lemony rhubarb.

It is a source of vitamins A and C, potassium, zinc, manganese and phosphorus. It has been used to treat respiratory infections.

James Parry, Stroud, Glos.