In a world that appears to be coming apart at the seams, we are reminded, on a daily basis, by the mainstream media, that we are separate and divided on many levels.

There are many aspects of our lives where we disagree.

I know how that works, for I was born and raised in a place of separation…Northern Ireland.

As I grew, left home, went to university and raised a family in London, I became aware of the importance of common ground.

London is a melting pot of over twelve million people, where the essence of living harmoniously is to be found in common ground.

I held an allotment for many years, a place where cultures met with great affection shared for what was beneath our very feet…common ground.

It served us well as we grew food, shared seed, advice and barbecues!

I continue to share common ground with my…