Page 61 - ALG Issue 3 2019

Each year we hold an Open Day, when the site is open to the public for plant sales, a tea and cake stall, plus other activities
solar panels supplying electric light
to our Trading Hut, our toilet which is flushed by grey water from the roofs, and our social space − the Cabin − where people can meet and make a drink. All parts of our 80-plot site are accessible for disabled people; we have several raised beds, as well as smaller plots for those who need them. We aim to make it a safe and happy place.
Our communal greenhouse, courtesy of a local social enterprise firm, Equity, is well-used; we have links with a local farmer for cow manure, and a local tree surgeon who provides chippings for paths. Our Trading Hut offers a range of growing supplies, including organic products for which there is increasing demand. Local residents can join the Association as ‘garden-only’ members to take advantage of our low prices.
In the wider community, we have close links with the local Flower Show Society
and participate in their annual show. Each year we hold an Open Day, when the site is open to the public for plant sales, a tea and cake stall, plus other activities and attractions. We hope to work with the council to support the reintroduction of village planters.
Due to the contribution from various social events throughout the year,
plus rents, Trading Hut sales and occasional grants, we are able to have a programme of continual improvement and maintenance of the site, due in
no small part to a hard-working and imaginative volunteer maintenance team who contribute ideas and labour.
Sarah Hubbold Secretary CHGAA
Allotment and Leisure Gardener 61