Apologies: Melanie Philpott, Lesley O’Connor, Liz Barnes.
 
Present: Steve Blair, Lorraine Montgomery, Jodi White, Lynne Gibson, Ann Hainsworth, John Hainsworth, Phil Moore, Haydn Mudford, Andy Bibbings, Kathy Knott, Brian Knott, Pauline Jones, Peter Jones, Jude Evans, Uta Banner, Jackie Green, Adrian Beal, Brian Coles, Fliss Cotton, Gary Buckingham, Katy Buckingham, Derrick Went, Paul Rowe.
 
 
Chairman Steve Blair welcomed everyone to the meeting.
 
1             Minutes of the previous AGM, Monday 4th Nov 2024 had previously been circulated and agreed.
 
2             Chairman’s Report 
 
Welcome everyone and thank you for attending the meeting this chilly evening.
 
The chairman asked all the site reps to introduce themselves to the meeting and state which site they were on for the benefit of all the new plot holders present.
 
During this year we have had two resignations, Joe Wallis, the former President and Alan Smith, the former Vice Chair. We would like to again thank them both for their many years work and service for our Society.
 
We have checked our Constitution and decided that we do not need to appoint a new President, but we have a volunteer to become our Vice Chair, Hayden Mudford from Lower Penns.
 
All the existing Committee members have agreed to persevere for a further year. I would like to thank all the reps for their continued efforts to keep the sites running and especially thank our Secretary, Lorraine and Treasurer, Jodi who have done so much to ensure that we don’t just continue to exist, we thrive.
I would like to propose that we consider how we can recognise the work they do and this will be discussed later in the meeting.
 
At the start of the year, we set a goal to bring the under used plots back into cultivation by more regular and rigorous inspections. We recognized that most new tenants are happy with a smaller plot, so as they became vacant we sub divided larger plots to allow more people to join our Society. I am pleased to report that we have succeeded.
 
On Derrell Road we had 33 plots and have increased that to 35. Due to people leaving we welcomed 7 new members and are currently fully occupied, and most plots are in a good condition.
 
Lower Penns started with 50 and now have 51 plots. Due to tenants leaving or failing their inspections, they have welcomed 6 new people over the year and have 5 vacancies which they in the process of filling.
 
Oakleigh started with 65 and now have an astonishing increase to 73. They have welcomed 13 new members and have now relet most available plots. There are however some vacant plots that require a lot of work and in a poor state. I propose that we give site reps the mandate to offer them rent free for the remainder of this year and half price next year, subject to satisfactory progress being observed during the usual inspections.
 
It was noted that not all new plot holders recognise what commitment is required to successfully manage an allotment. Although they receive the Full agreement before they view a plot, and the site reps impressing what is expected when showing plots to potential plot holders, some still fail to make sufficient progress.
 
Turning to the Societies finances, we start the new year with a healthy bank balance, but this contingency fund should not be eroded. This year has been expensive, and we foresee further such expenditure. We have spent nearly £900 removing rubbish from neglected plots. Also, we have found it necessary to pay people to carry out essential tasks such as fence repairs and clearing neglected plots. This is due to the lack of volunteers to assist with this work.
 
 
3.      Treasurer’s Report
 
          AGM Figure
 
          Opening balance
          Deposit account           £2448.20
          Current Account           £7477.50
          Cash in hand                £58.00
          Grand Total                 £9,983.70
 
          Paid Out
          Nsalg subs                   £500.50
          Insurance                     £498.94
          Bank Charges              £61.20
          Water                            £1595.07
          Repairs/sundries          £1195.25
          Rubbish clearance       £885.00
Prize vouchers             £130.00
Website renewal          £114.74
Kings seeds                 £496.03
Total                             £5476.73
 
Paid In
Subs                             £5410.50
Shop sales/Kings         £766.30
Total                             £6176.80
         
 
          Closing balance
          Deposit account           £2490.47
          Current Account           £8137.72
          Cash in hand                £97.90
         
Grand Total Held        £10,726.09
 
         
The treasurer noted that the main expenses had been in the main the usual ones, however rubbish removal was a notable exception this year. The water bill was a significant expense but the majority of that is fixed, and although Lower Penns is metered and it was exceptionally dry it was noted that it was only marginally higher than previous years. Kings Seeds had also managed to make a small profit this year. So overall it had been a good year with the Society covering its costs and maintaining its contingency.
 
4.      Election of Officers
 
We had only one nomination for a post and that was for the post of Vice Chairman. Haydn Mudford Nominated by Lorraine, seconded by Lynne Gibson and Andy Bibbings.
 
All other posts have agreed to continue for the year, and we have one new site representative for Derrell Road Phil Banner.
 
So the post holders are confirmed as:
 
Chairman                      Steve Blair
Vice Chairman             Haydn Mudford
Secretary                      Lorraine Montgomery
Treasurer                      Jodi White
 
Site Representatives
 
Oakleigh :  Gary Buckingham, Lynne Gibson, Derrick Went, Leigh Lewis
 
Derrell Road: Steve Blair, Jaqueline Green, Steve Brown, Phillip Banner.
 
Lower Penns: Haydn Mudford, Andy Bibbings, Phil Moore       
 
5.      Honorariums
The Chairman had put this on the agenda but having investigated the HRMC regulations realised that it would be taxable and require PAYE registration. It was therefore agreed not feasible to pursue further.
 
6.      Rent Increase
The Chairman noted that the Society have not increased its rents for many years and that we are considerably cheaper than most other allotments. He proposed that an increase the rent for half a plot from £21 to £25 be considered. This would generate around £690 additional income. Also our insurance premium for co-workers has been increased from £2 to £3 so this fee should be raised accordingly.
 
It was agreed the co-worker insurance needed to be covered so that would be raised to £3.
 
A discussion took place about the importance of registering all co-workers with the secretary for insurance purposes, to ensure the Society’s Liability is covered.
 
A vote took place for those in favour of the rent increase; the vast majority of the meeting were in favour so it will be increased as of April 2026 to £25 for half plot (other plot sizes proportionately i.e. Full plot to £50.)
 
The reasoning for the increase was to ensure the contingency sum was not eroded. It was noted feasible that other expenses could arise such as further rubbish removal, or boundary works such as fencing and tree works should the Council declare it is not responsible for these.
 
7.      Plot Awards
 
At the meeting on 15th September, Site rep Lynne from Oakleigh proposed that we recognize the hard work of our plot holders and present an awards for the best plot and best newcomers. This was agreed as a good idea and the Committee announced their winners:
 
Oakleigh
 
Best Newcomer:  Lucie Hanzlickova Plot 2b
 
Lucy and John took over a very neglected plot in mid-March this year. Both worked very hard together including putting up a greenhouse, shed water butts etc. Lucy has continued to work this plot growing a wonderful selection of vegetables and flowers her plot is an absolute credit to her and a great example to other plot holders.  Lucie is a real asset to the Oakleigh site and this voucher is an acknowledgement of her hard work. Well done, Lucie.
 
Best Plot Ella Kotlarski Plot 25
 
Ella’s plot is a wonder to behold Ella grows a great selection of vegetables herbs fruit bushes and fruit trees ..in the Summer her greenhouse is bursting with tomatoes. Ella has an extensive knowledge of the requirements of all the plants she grows using natural feeds and fertilisers. Ella is a mine of information which she is very happy to share. Ella is generous with her produce and extremely well liked by the other plot holders on Oakleigh. Ella is Oakleigh’s version of a National Treasure, and this voucher is an acknowledgment of her kindness and hard work. Well done, Ella 
 
Lower Penns
 
Best Newcomer Tom Wilkinson Plot 11b
 
The two Toms have worked hard since taking over their plot and have made a positive difference to the growing area. They have integrated well into our community on Lower Penns always cheerful, smiling and keen to learn from existing plot holders.
 
Best Plot Michael Masterman Plot 5a
 
Micheal plot has always been so well managed and maintained, never seen underused or unkempt. Michael quietly gets on with working his plot and judging by his results is a very accomplished gardener.
 
Derrell Road 
The DR site reps found it difficult to decide which plot holders deserved recognition this year as the standards were generally high. However, a decision had to be made and decided to award:
 
Newcomers prize to three plot holders, who will share the prize equally. The Plot holders are:-
 
12a Jude Evans
13b Phil Banner
17b Lesley O’Connor
 
All three plot holders have made significant improvements to their plots since taken them over and have
displayed a variety of crops.
 
Best Plot 
 
Eleni Garitagoitia 3b
The plot been presented beautifully throughout the year with a combination of vegetables and flowers. This year especially it has been full if colour and creative planting.
Well done to all the winners.
 
 
8.      Any Other Business
 
Oakleigh site reps suggested a new tap was required at the bottom of the site now a number of plots had been subdivided creating more pressure to use the tap in the middle of the site. It was agreed the site reps would investigate further and come back to the next meeting with a costed proposal.
 
 
9.      Date and Location of Next Meetings
 
 
          Room bookings are confirmed at RAOB Club, Paignton for:
 
 
AGM Monday 2nd Nov 2026
 
          Next Quarterly Meetings
 
Monday 2nd Feb 2026
Monday 4th May 2026
Monday 3rd August 2026
 
 
 
 
Meeting closed at 8.10 pm

Present:
Committee: Steve Blair, Stephen Brown, Lorraine Montgomery, Gary Buckingham, Lynne Gibson, Jacqueline Green, Derrick Went, Phil Moore, Andy Bibbings, Hadyn Mudford.
 
Also in attendance:  Uta Banner, Jude Evans, Katy Buckingham
 
Apologies: Jodi White
 
 

1. Minutes of the previous meeting 2nd June 2025 were agreed.
2. Chairman’s Report

 
Welcome everyone to our last meeting before the AGM.
I would like to thank you all for your work during the year to keep our allotments thriving and I hope that you are all keen to continue. I especially thank our Secretary, Lorraine and Treasurer, Jodi and at the AGM I shall be proposing that the Society considers offering them an honorarium because without their hard work we would not be able to continue.
Two of our founder members, Joe, The President and Alan, the Vice Chairman have decided to hang up their hats and stand down. I am sure that we all thank them for all that they have done over the years to create a vibrant, thriving Committee that we have today. I could mention all of the things that they have done for us over the years but if I did, we would still be here after closing time.
Talking about resignations, our Minister for Housing and Communities resigned recently, having been accused of sub-letting her Council house without permission and not paying tax on the income and then pretending that her third expensive home in Hove was her main residence to avoid paying £40,000 stamp duty. What is not in dispute is that she gave 5 Councils permission to terminate leases on under used allotments so they could build houses on them. 
This is a reminder that we need to continue with our regular site inspections to give early notice to plot holders who are either hoarding rubbish or not cultivating their land that they need to improve.
I contacted Coastal Compost last week and they still require £200 delivery charge in Paignton whatever size of skip ( 6,12, or 18 yard). Therefore, I welcome Site Reps to consider asking the Committee for a load, especially if they have the area available to receive 18 yards.
Several DR members have recently bought treated timber from Timber Land at Yalberton as they are the best value locally. They told me that if a couple of plot holders made a reasonable order then they would nor charge for delivery and they would drop off a load of used pallets for compost bins etc free.
Thank you all again.
 
 
 
3.   Matters arising from previous meeting
 

1. Oakleigh trees. Secretary offered to contact the Council.
2. Oakleigh boundary wall Incident number ID 262363, Derrick has continued to follow up but no a repair yet.
3. Co Worker Scheme – 2 people offered both declined. Contacted 20 people at top of list since the last meeting (4 took plots) but no takers of co-worker position. Those nearing the top would rather wait and get own plot. Also started offering to new people on the list 2 have said they are willing, but they are complete gardening novices so they would need guidance. Appears what is more effective is to encourage those struggling to find themselves a co-worker. However, the secretary will continue to offer co-worker positions to those on the list.

 
4.  Correspondence: (Secretary)
 
Communications with plotholders on behalf of site reps has been ongoing since the last meeting. 12 warning letters, two notices to quit issued.
 
Also, 6 plots have been re-let since the last meeting, 8 new applicants have been added to the waiting list since the last meeting.  In the process of re-letting posts we have removed 11 names from the top, ie. not contactable or no longer wanting a plot. A few have said they are wanting to remain on the list but not in a position to take it just now. So thewaiting list stands at around 105.
    
 
5.  Treasurer’s Report -
 
Opening Balance                     £ 9503.63
 
Paid Out
 
Bank Charges                             £ 17.00
Rubbish clearance plot4/5        £ 295.00
Strimmer petrol (AB)                  £ 32.48          
Toilet block LP (PM)                   £ 48.43
Fuel/Light/Lock DR (SB)           £ 35.29
Toilet refurb DR (SB)                 £ 83.30
Hedge trimmer OAK (GB)         £ 31.49
Shed Toilet repair DR (SB)       £114.39                     
Water LP’s                                   £ 508.30
 
TOTAL                                         £ 1165.68
 
Paid In Subs                              £417.00
 
Closing Balance                       £ 8754.95

6.  Site Reports
 
Derrell Road
 
Two site inspection have been carried out recently on DR and most plots are
in good order. The Site Reps have communicated with several plot holders
regarding lack of cultivation, which has resulted in some improvement,
although further inspections will continue, to ensure those improvements
continue.
 
One plot holder who made a promising start, was then absent for prolonged
periods of time which caused their plot to become overgrown. Despite our
requests for improvement little progress was apparent so they were served
with the first formal letter. This has provoked some work to be carried out,
so while we wait to see if it is sustained, we are deferring service of the
second notice and conducting monthly inspections.
 
The toilet block has been revamped, cleaned and painted. The Turning
space has been cleared of brambles and the fence reinforced. Removing the
brambles has also made access to the communal tool shed easier. Thanks
to all involved in carrying out this work and a special thanks to Gary for
painting the toilet block.
 
All plots are occupied at the present time.
 
 
Oakleigh
 
1.Security continues to be a big issue at Oakleigh with another recent break in and on-going vandalism from the children accessing the site from the park. To be discussed as separate item.
 
2. Site inspections have continued monthly throughout the Summer and there has been a noticeable improvement on some plots. 
 
3. We have several new plot holders getting on well with their new plots.
 
4. We have purchased green manure anyone interested please contact Gary.
 
5. We have a new site Rep Lee Lewis. Our Site Reps are: 
 
Gary Buckingham    Plot 19
Derek Went               Plot 12
Lynne Gibson           Plot 16b
Lee Lewis                  Plot 9a
 
6. Please would people if you haven’t already done so, please number your plots. 
 
 
 
Lower Penns
 
Some trees were cut down by the council outside the boundary of Lower Penns Road close to the entrance gate, with resultant wood chippings made available for plot holders to use.

The site reps have been busy :

A number of taps have been serviced/mended/replaced, including the one in the sink in the toilet.

The grass on the main path has regularly been cut and boundary bushes trimmed. 

The notice board has been refurbished.  

Repairs to the boundary fencing have been made and some overhanging tree branches lopped.  

The site reps also helped Oakleigh site clear three half plots so they can be relet to new tenants.

Regular plot inspections have been made with three first dirty plot letters sent in June and none in July.  However, the September inspection has identified six plots that need to be sent letters. 

It has been noted that a number of plots have had good harvests (especially fruit) which have not been picked and instead left to rot which is disappointing.

Plot 14b plot holder was offered help through the co-worker scheme discussed at the last meeting, but declined the offer, preferring to work on her own.   She did, however, advise that she would make a decision as to whether she gives up her plot after this growing season.

Plot 2a is being divided into two quarter plots to enable the existing plot holder to remain on site but with a smaller area to look after.
 
Following an inspection today (15.09.25) 4 first warnings are to be issued and 2 final warnings. All having reverted to an unacceptable unkempt and overgrown state.
 
7.  Plot Awards
 
Oakleigh site reps would like to reintroduce the Best Plot and Most Improved Plot Awards. The chosen plot holders would receive a from the Secretary and a £20 voucher from Longcombe Nursery (Where a discount id offered to plot holders). 
This was agreed as a good idea, and plots will be put forward per site at the pending AGM on November 3rd.
  
8. Site security Oakleigh
 
Options for security
 
The lower part of the site adjoins the park which is about 1 metre lower and mostly separated by a bramble hedge. However, in the area behind our old shipping container the fence and hedge have been pulled down creating the obvious point of access for intruders.
This section is about 5 metres wide between a dead tree and a laurel tree.
Unfortunately, the whole area is a dumping ground for rotting timbers, car tyres, plastics, and much more so a lot of clearance is required before starting any remedial work.
We are not seeking to prevent determined, professional criminals, just the feral kids who set light to the new picnic table days after it was installed and stole tools from the allotment to damage the soft play area.
 
Lynne has kindly obtained a quotation from a fencing company, This was £2262, a considerable cost but noted for a substantial longer metal fence.
 
An alternative solution is to use wooden stakes and 2-inch weld mesh in the 5 yards where the boundary is compromised and to also plant nature friendly spiny shrubs such as blackthorn, Berberis and Holly. As these mature, they will create food and shelter for birds, and the fence will become redundant.
The Chairman had costed the fencing materials at £150 and the plants at £150.
 
The fencing company proposed 2 men for a day, with the area having been cleared first by the society.
 
The alternative plan also requires 2-man days (after the initial clearance). The initial task being to tidy the area and make it safe to work and create the planting strip. Then prune the trees and remove the old, damaged wire fence to enable access.
The next job would be to drive in the stakes and attach the wire and weld mesh.
Finally plant the shrubs.
 
We would struggle to get a local labourer to want the job but if we had some volunteers, we could reward them with £300, either £100 each for 3 or £150 each for 2. 
 
This alternative plan was discussed and agreed as a way forward, with two likely volunteers having been identified. Oakleigh site reps will organise the clearance of the area asap and then two volunteers from DR will scope the job and confirm their willingness to do the work.
 
 
The Chariman proposed if this plan cannot happen because volunteer help is not confirmed then a quorum will be convened to make a decision on taking forward the more expensive option.
  
9. AOB
 
Seed Catalogues are available and were passed to DR and OAK site reps to distribute.
 
Next Meeting is the AGM 3rd November 7.30pm at RAOB – all plot holders are invited to attend.
 
Date of Next Committee Meeting: Monday 2nd Feb 2026 (pending the room being booked)
 
 
Meeting Closed at 8.15pm

Present:
Committee: Steve Blair, Lorraine Montgomery, Gary Buckingham, Lynne Gibson, Joe Wallis, Jacqueline Green, Derrick Went, Stephen Brown, Andy Bibbings, Hadyn Mudford, Phil Moore.
 
Also in attendance: Lizzie Brown, Katy Buckingham
 
Apologies: Jodie White, Alan Smith
 
1. Minutes of the previous meeting 3rd March 2025 were agreed. 

2. Patt Marriott.
 
The Chairman noted the recent sudden passing of Patt Marriot, a long serving Committee member and plot holder at Oakleigh. He sent condolences to her husband Steve and brother Alan and a moment of reflection was observed.

3. Chairman's Report
 
Last month a longstanding DR plot holder was seen heading for the gate carrying his tools. He was asked what he was doing and said that he was quitting but he did not know who to tell. He was asked to return so his plot could be inspected and it was apparent that he intended to leave behind years of accumulated rubbish. When confronted he said that the new tenant may want it which was obviously untrue. He was asked to remove the stuff. He then declined to respond to emails on the subject. We prepared an extensive list of items that needed to be removed and sent it to him. We advised him that the Committee would not do this for him so I would give the list to a man with a van and send him the bill, likely to be a couple of hundred pounds and if he declined to pay I would pursue the matter in the Small Claims Court. That weekend he returned with helpers and removed everything on my list.
 
This type of hoarding has also become apparent on Oakleigh. I feel that when carrying out inspections the site reps should challenge plot holders who appear to be collecting rubbish to remove it before they either walk away or get evicted.
 
The following weekend I showed the plot to a couple with young children. They seemed surprised that it was rather overgrown and neglected. They declined the plot.
 
It was apparent that they had no experience of allotments and expected to pay £21 and walk onto a pristine plot.
 
This is why I would like to discuss the idea of co-workers.
 
If existing plot holders are finding it difficult to manage their land they can advise the Secretary that they would like a co-worker. People near the top of the list could then be invited to co-work with an experience allotmenteer whilst they await a plot becoming vacant. This could enable them to pick up a few tips, make some new friends and also assist the person who was struggling. It may also result in some prospective gardeners realizing that it is harder work that they thought and decide to come off the list.
 
We can discuss this further in the body of the meeting.
 
My final issue concerns enforcement of the tenancy agreement.
 
It is clear that plot holders must keep their land in a good state of cultivation and clear of weeds that would interfere with neighbouring plots. Also they must maintain the paths between adjoining plots. Last month I advised a DR plot holder that his paths were overgrown with grass and nettles which made them hazardous to use. Also they were about to seed to the detriment of the tidy neighbouring plots so he should resolve this within 7 days. He said that he did not want to do it and decided to resign with immediate effect.
 
The plot was relet the following day and is now being cleared and returned to full cultivation.
 
 
4.   Matters arising from previous meeting

1. Tree issue at Oakleigh. Still outstanding. Oakleigh site reps offered to take on contacting the Council through the online process.
2. Secretary emailed Churston Farm Shop re discount scheme. No response as yet. However members have been successfully using the discount scheme at Longcombe.
3. Oakleigh boundary wall that had collapsed adjacent to Baston Gardens. Derrick Went completed the online Council webform to have it inspected. Incident number ID 262363, nothing actioned by the Council as yet., Derrick to follow up.

 
 
5.  Correspondence: (Secretary)
 
Generally busy with ongoing correspondence on behalf of site reps and plotholders since the last meeting.
 
7 plots have been re-let since the last meeting, 13 new applicants have been added to the waiting list since the last meeting in the process of re-letting posts we have removed 12 names from the top, so waiting list stands at around 120
    
Following Oakleigh site inspection today there are 3 letters to be issued, and one new tenant to find.
 
Wool  - Alpaca, still awaiting update on delivery. Smaller volume than suggested.
 
6.  Treasurer’s Report  -
 
Opening Balance         £ 7816.41
 
Paid Out
 
Bank Charges                 £ 19.80
Rubbish clearance         £ 590 
Water Oakleigh/DR       £ 815.27        
Pallets                              £ 30
Padlock                            £ 5.91
Weedol                            £ 22.26
Lock and Key OAK        £ 36
Plywood LP,s                  £ 7.58
Postage/statioary           £ 13.20                      
Toilet sundries DR         £ 15.29
Water LP’s                       £ 101.47
 
TOTAL                             £ 1656.78
 
 
Paid In
 
Subs                                 £ 3338.00
Pellets fbb                        £ 27.00          
 
TOTAL                             £ 3365.00
Cash in hand                 £ 21.00
 
Closing Balance           £ 9503.63
 
The Chairman noted that it was important to keep a good positive balance on account because of unforeseen issues that may arise which could need funding. He congratulated the Treasurer on maintaining the accounts so well.
 
7.  Site Reports
 
 
Derrell Road
 
Derrell Road site is fully occupied with two plots recently being re-let. The new
plot holders have made good progress with their plots.
Generally, the site is in good order with most plots tidy and under good
cultivation. Emails have been drafted to go out to two plot holders whose plots are under cultivated and in need of tidying.
 
 
Oakleigh
 
1. Can plot holders please keep dogs on a lead and on their own plots.
 
2. If dipping or washing out watering cans in the tanks beneath the taps please make sure there are no chemicals or dirt in your watering can. Others ca then use this water to water by hand. Unfortunately, the middle tank seems to have been contaminated rendering it useless for watering.
 
3. We are continuing with monthly plot inspections and have had good results, the majority of people receiving ‘Under Used’ plot letters have improved their plots and the site is looking better. 
 
4. There are still ongoing issues with plot holders leaving vans and cars in the turning space despite being asked to take vehicles off site when they have been unloaded. Please be considerate of all using the site.
 
5. We would like to set up a working party to help plot holders who are struggling because of ill health Lynne is happy to organise and Co ordinate this. Please contact her on [email protected] if you can spare a few hours to help fellow plot holders or are in need of help.
 
6. Site security some issues have arisen break ins and locking of gate. The keys have been copied so many times many no longer open the main gate. It was decided the chain needs to be welded to the lock. The site reps are to look for someone to do the welding.
 
 
Lower Penns
 
Following the new tenancy year, all plots are now fully let, with one whole plot being split into two. Another plot is now split into three in order to help plot holders remain on site with a smaller area to manage. This will also help to reduce the waiting list. All new plot holders are now enthusiastically digging and the site has been well attended during a sunny Spring time. 
 
A delivery of pallets arrived in April and all were eagerly claimed by plot holders. Whilst everybody was sensible in how many pallets they took, all of the pallets were gone in just a few days. 
 
The site reps have been busy... The boundary fence has been repaired in a number of places.
Phil has painted the exterior of the toilet shed and the tool store. 
Two taps have been mended 
All three site reps cleared plot 9b prior to reletting, having a bonfire to clear old unwanted wood and Andy making a trip to the tip with the non combustible material.
Andy has also been regularly cutting the grass on the main path.
 
Three Dirty plot letters were sent out following an inspection at the end of April and all of the plot holders have responded positively by strimming, digging and clearing overgrown brambles.  A couple of potential safety risks have been dealt with.  A stack of broken glass has been removed, and a ramshackle fruit cage has been taken down, before it collapsed.
 
In conclusion, we have a good LP site. The site rep, along with the treasurer and secretary get along with our lot and enjoy doing it.
 
8.  Co workers (Steve)
 
Steve proposed setting up a co-worker scheme to support plot holders who are struggling or needing to take a break and to give people on the waiting list some experience of what is involved in having an allotment. Site reps are to mention this to plot holders they feel are struggling and the secretary will contact the top 5/6 people on the list to offer this opportunity. It will be for the plot holder to decide with their co-worker how they want to work e.g.. divide up tasks or subdivide the plot. Anyone wanting a co-worker is also invited to contact the site reps or Secretary.
A Co-worker scheme will also act as a trial for potential new plotholders to reduce the incidence of new plot holders giving up shortly after taking a plot on because they discover the effort and dedication involved.
 
9. Crime Prevention Options (Steve)
 
Issues have arisen sporadically on all sites and more recently at Oakleigh. In the main it was vandalism and petty theft. The Committee felt maintain secure boundaries, keeping gates locked, signs warning of wildlife cameras and use of black tar paint on high gates etc, were sufficient deterrent.
 
10. Saving water – (Lynne)
 
Plot holders are asked to use water butts to collect rainwater where possible. Also please ensure your hose connections are good and water is not being wasted. Oakleigh plot holders are asked to leave the water connectors on taps. It is expected that some spare water butts will soon become available on Oakleigh.
 
11. Role of Site Representatives (Lynne)
 
It was felt useful to remind plot holders of the role of site reps:
 
The role is voluntary 
To contribute to the general running of each site
To carry out monthly plot inspections and contribute to a site report 
To try to resolve problems on the site as they arise
 
Your Site Reps are:-
 
DR – Steve Blair plot 5b, Jaqueline Green plot 5a, Steve Brown plot 6a
 
OAK – Gary Buckingham plot 19, Derrick Went plot 12, Lynne Gibson plot 16b
 
LP’s – Andy Bibbings plot 24, Haydn Mudford plot 8a, Phillip Moore plot 13
 
12. AOB
 
No items raised.
 
 
 
Date of Next Committee Meeting: Monday 1st September 2025
 
 
Meeting Closed at   8.20 pm