Just in case you didn’t see the email from Barbara, the ‘Best Plots’ were judged by Burston Nurseries last week. The results are below – and I think we can all agree that they are very worthy winners of the donated Burstons vouchers. The Burstons Plant Area Manager, Darren, carried out the judging which was thorough and detailed. He was interested in and impressed by the range of plants grown and the variation between plots, the community spirit and commitment from plot holders. We are grateful to Darran for his participation at short notice. He also took the time to chat with various plotholders who were on site at the time. We should also be grateful to Jan Castle, who organised this year’s event.
The winners are:
First Prize – Rob Flannigan, Plot 8
Second Prize – Octavian Popescu, Plot 40/41
Third Prize – Vivienne Rodwell Davies, Plot 6/7
The Accolade – to all of us!
We were astonished to get this fabulous meal from Darren after the judging. Here it is in full.
Firstly, I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for asking me to judge your plots this year.
I have to say after hearing of the dreadful time you all experienced last year, I was humbled by what I saw when I arrived. The quite apparent desire and resilience to not be beaten by not only a global pandemic but horrendous flooding too. I doff my cap to each and everyone of the plot holders for their hard work and determination to get the whole site back to operational.One of the best things about having an allotment is being part of a like-minded community, sharing not only methods and tips but crops too. I really did feel like the community feel ran throughout the Burydell site and it was obvious that there is huge diversity in the plot owners and their requirements and expectations. Some plots were clearly managed by experienced gardeners with maybe a little more time on their hands these days, others by young families introducing their offspring into the world of nature.
The general standard across the whole site was excellent which made picking a first, second and third very difficult. My decision was made taking into account creativity, effort, environmental, housekeeping (to a lesser degree), resourcefulness and of course crop results.
The first place was awarded as I felt this encapsulated what we should be doing more of. Not only resourceful but clearly an area where children could get involved with not just the veg, but also planting wildlife friendly plants too. It was not immaculate, but it gave me a ‘happy’ feel.
The second and third positions also had many ‘feel good’ qualities, from wildlife planting to complimentary planting, areas to relax and unwind and good selection of crop as well as ornamental plants too.
I have been around many allotment sites over the years but never been so amazed by the standard that I experienced this morning. So whether you are there every day, a few days a week or just at the weekend, keep up the great work at your lovely site! Darran, Plant Area Manager, Burston Nurseries
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