It will be completely the wrong weather when I arrive but you've got me started on the idea now. I'm only going to have a small little veggie patch (small garden) but hey, I can make a start and see what happens. Plus it's another way to torture Shaun - when it warms up make him do several runs with a half full watering can (too heavy for him otherwise). He might enjoy growing 'stuff' and it could even encourage him to eat something green. Definitely worth a try. Thank you for the advice!
Barbara - your message just popped up so I checked the map. Maybe 150 miles?
I've got what should be a veggie patch, except it's in the shadow of the house, and on a north-facing slope! At least I've got river water for irrigation.