Page 34 - ALG Issue 4 2024

MEET
Welcome to...
Applegarth Lane Allotment Society Havercroft Allotments Association 17 Individuals
Welcome to...
Briarfields AllotmentAssociation Pelton Fell Allotment Society
8 Individuals
Gerry Edwards, RHS, Phil Gomersall BEM
NORTHERN
YORKSHIRE
GUY
Guy is your Northern National Allotment Society Regional Representative:
I have been allotment gardening for
25 years or so on the West Jesmond Allotments in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, and for 20 years have been chair of the site.
During that period, we have made
many improvements: replacing the 500 metres of perimeter fence, refacing and reroofing our allotment hut, creating a set of raised beds for less able gardeners, and planting lavender hedges to give insects
a better chance.We have also put in a modern eco-toilet, which is easy to use and manage and does not need electricity or water. I have also grown a lot of fruit and vegetables, using unedged raised beds and cordon or fan training for fruit trees. In the last few years, I have started to experiment with no dig methods, but it is fair to say there are no shortcuts and, however, you garden, you do need to work at it.
I look forward to meeting some of you during the year or at one of our general meetings. Happy gardening!
Guy Herzmark
Northern Regional Representative
“I have started to experiment with no dig methods, but it is fair to say there are no shortcuts”
Former President receives two Well Deserved Awards
Phil Gomersall, former President of
the National Allotment Society, has received two significant and prestigious awards for his long service to allotment gardening and horticulture.
He received the Geoff Stokes Award from the National Allotment Society in June.This award is a significant honour in recognition of an individual who goes above and beyond in their service and reflects exceptional character and outstanding achievement.
On the 17th July atTatton Park Flower Show, he was presented with the very prestigious award, the RHS George Lockie Award 2023 in recognition and acknowledgement of his outstanding work over many years to horticulture, primarily his drive to promote and protect allotment gardening both nationally and across Europe.
The award was presented by Gerry Edwards, Chairman of the RHS fruit, vegetable and herb committee in
the presence of Clare Matterson CBE, Director General of the Royal Horticultural Society and Medwyn Willams, President of the National Vegetable Society.
He is still involved in allotments as Secretary ofVictory Garden Allotments, Rawdon, Leeds and is also Vice Chairman of Rawdon in Bloom.
34 | Issue 4 2024 | Allotment and Leisure Gardener