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: 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
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