After a cold, harsh, and what at times has felt to be a never-ending winter, it appears spring has finally sprung with a rather unusual arrival - a baby wallaby!

While residents rejoice as lambs, daffodils and veggies galore signal the arrival of the new season, Old McDonald’s Farm, is caring for a slightly more unusual arrival.

“Ozzie the Joey is still in his mother’s pouch, but he is attracting plenty of visitors” commented farm manager Jessica Knight. “Spring has most definitely kicked off.”

The farm in Brentwood has already welcomed approximately 30 newborns – roughly 25 lambs and 6 goats.

Jess said: “Spring arrived many weeks ago at the farm, with births as early as December. We expect even more as the season progresses.”

RSPB Rainham Marshes is also reaping the benefits of spring.

Information officer Howard Vaughan said: “The first migrant swallows, warblers and cuckoos are arriving and bees and butterflies are buzzing around the flowering willows.”

Rainham Marshes’ celebrity water voles are full of life, and spring is the perfect time to see them munching on a fresh reed stem.

With wildlife thriving, it seems we can finally wave goodbye to the dark days of winter.

If that wasn’t proof enough, the prestigious Havering In Bloom competition is now open for nominations– a sure sign that spring is finally here.

The competition will showcase the borough’s green-fingered talents and preparations are well underway for Eric Wilson - last year’s runner up of the Best Front Garden award.

“Spring started early for me”, he said. “I love gardening, and I am always busy outside, the cold weather won’t keep me away!”

His hard work has paid off with daffodils, tulips and narcissi blooming in his greenhouse.

Cllr Barry Tebbutt, cabinet member for environment, said: “After a harsh winter people can’t wait to get back into their gardens, tending to their beds and planting flowers. Spring is here so it’s not too early to start thinking about entering Havering In Bloom.”

Corbets Tey School, in Upminster, is sure to take part in the competition after scooping Best School Grounds in 2010.

At present, the soil is recovering from the cold winter months, but spring is sure to bare witness to yet another bountiful display of flowers.

Bloom & Veg Farm Shop, in Upminster, is celebrating the new season with a variety of tasty local produce on offer. Farm shop owner Darren Bromley recommends “in-season favourites; Jersey Royals, asparagus and strawberries. Multi-purpose compost is also great for prepping the soil.”

Spring has well and truly arrived. With blossom blooming, lambs bleating and the sun shining, it is time to throw off our winter coats and embrace all that the new season has to offer.