Jules wrote:
I agree with the others, but there are plus sides to this unkemptness
too; the fact that its been allowed to grow long probably means there
isn't any moss to get rid of each spring and autumn, and you might have
some lovely wild flowers popping up.

Thanks for the advice, all.

Somehow I don't really think we're in the realms of pretty meadows and
wild flowers here... first task is to get rid of the debris (eg
yesterday I discovered two iron gates lying there hitherto unnoticed
beneath the soggy grassy mess), then tackle the rat's nest of brambles
snaking across the place...!

David