General News - General News
Hyde Hall Visit
02nd August 2025
The Allotment Association once again organised a trip to RHS Hyde Hall for members and friends of the Association. The day was well supported with 22 making the short trip to the gardens, where compared with last year there seemed to be considerably more displays, together with the usual range of concessions available.
02nd August 2025
In: General News
The Allotment Association once again organised a trip to RHS Hyde Hall for members and friends of the Association. The day was well supported with 22 making the short trip to the gardens, where compared with last year there seemed to be considerably more displays, together with the usual range of concessions available.
This year the BBC were recording episodes of Gardeners question time on site, and there were members of the Association who took advantage of this unique opportunity. In addition to the various exhibitors, there was also a marquee hosting talks and presentations, with members of the RHS on hand to answer questions, and as previous years Martin and Jill Fish were on hand to present a piece in terms of turning what we grow into a meal. This year the humble carrot, and blueberries were the stars of the show.
For those looking for inspiration there was a vast array of floral colour, shapes, fragrances and sizes on display, from the usual to the unusual, including various tropical or rare plants, mixed in with a variety of herbs. Add to this all the trade stalls with garden implements and accessories, the temptation could prove to be significant.
For those requiring a more relaxing approach to the show there were a couple of areas with deckchairs and live music, together with food and drink, and of course all the gardens were available to wander round and take in.
The vegetable area this year was in our opinion considerably improved from last year, with a range of familiar and more exotic vegetables being cultivated, which Hyde Hall then uses in the meals it produces for visitors.
A huge thank you to Karen Lawrence who organised this outing, and also to the RHS with whom we co - ordinate to ensure we get the right number of tickets for the group, which we manage through the Allotment Associations membership of the RHS.
Hopefully everyone had a great day, and we must have been inspired as there were numerous bags of plants, shrubs and other leaving with members.
A huge thank you to Karen Lawrence who organised this outing, and also to the RHS with whom we co - ordinate to ensure we get the right number of tickets for the group, which we manage through the Allotment Associations membership of the RHS.
Hopefully everyone had a great day, and we must have been inspired as there were numerous bags of plants, shrubs and other leaving with members.
Allotment Competition Result
31st July 2025
The Allotment Association annual competition was held again this year, and was judged by Alistair and Alison Gillan, who have an allotment at Hill Road. Alistair also produced a film in respect of Allotments locally and the beneficial impact they have on our health and well being, and several plot holders along with other plots in Chelmsford took part in this project.
For ease we split the competition into two segments, one for those who have held a plot for less than 18 months, and those who have held for over 18 months.
Our judges also took the opportunity to see how we go about things on site, and picked up lots of ideas to take back to their own site and group at Hill Road.
The results as follows:
winner of the over 18 months - Darryl Mullinger
2nd place - Richard Harris
3rd place - Joan Kama
winner of the under 18 months - Eugene and Carmen Calugar
31st July 2025
In: General News
The Allotment Association annual competition was held again this year, and was judged by Alistair and Alison Gillan, who have an allotment at Hill Road. Alistair also produced a film in respect of Allotments locally and the beneficial impact they have on our health and well being, and several plot holders along with other plots in Chelmsford took part in this project.
For ease we split the competition into two segments, one for those who have held a plot for less than 18 months, and those who have held for over 18 months.
Our judges also took the opportunity to see how we go about things on site, and picked up lots of ideas to take back to their own site and group at Hill Road.
The results as follows:
winner of the over 18 months - Darryl Mullinger
2nd place - Richard Harris
3rd place - Joan Kama
winner of the under 18 months - Eugene and Carmen Calugar
Our judges provided some feedback in terms of their decision
" 1st place - this plot really captured our feeling of what a great plot would be, from small fruit trees, to basic produce, really well laid out, and then there were chickens. I think as individuals with our own plot, what we value and appreciate is the commitment it takes to maintain it, and grow great produce, although growing the way we do, there will always be failures. For us, it wasn't about who was growing the best produce, it was more about the journey of growing.
in 2nd place - this plot just showed an enormous amount of commitment and love, functional and well loved, and then to third place where it was difficult to fault this plot. Innovative beds, lots or variety it was just a pleasure to walk around.
it was a really tough decision to take to select three beyond many others. There were many plots that showed off the love, attention, and amazing amounts of effort so huge congratulations to everyone concerned.
We'd like to make a special shout out to the Wilderness foundation, which is such an important project and this should really be replicated on many more sites. Finally, the best site for the newcomers was chosen because so much works had been put into it already that we are sure they will be contenders for the best overall plot in years to come.
Thank you all for inviting us to have a look round."
The trophies for this years competition will be awarded at the Annual Coffee and Mince pie morning (not forgetting Tony's legendary brew) which takes place on Saturday 6th December. Please book mark this date in your diary, as it also provides us with the opportunity to update everyone about what is happening on site, the trading hut, and for fellow plot members to enjoy a relaxed morning before the relentless hurtle toward christmas.
Finally a big thank you to Alistair and Alison for giving up their time and energy to wander round our plots, and for everyone on site who help to make these things possible.
" 1st place - this plot really captured our feeling of what a great plot would be, from small fruit trees, to basic produce, really well laid out, and then there were chickens. I think as individuals with our own plot, what we value and appreciate is the commitment it takes to maintain it, and grow great produce, although growing the way we do, there will always be failures. For us, it wasn't about who was growing the best produce, it was more about the journey of growing.
in 2nd place - this plot just showed an enormous amount of commitment and love, functional and well loved, and then to third place where it was difficult to fault this plot. Innovative beds, lots or variety it was just a pleasure to walk around.
it was a really tough decision to take to select three beyond many others. There were many plots that showed off the love, attention, and amazing amounts of effort so huge congratulations to everyone concerned.
We'd like to make a special shout out to the Wilderness foundation, which is such an important project and this should really be replicated on many more sites. Finally, the best site for the newcomers was chosen because so much works had been put into it already that we are sure they will be contenders for the best overall plot in years to come.
Thank you all for inviting us to have a look round."
The trophies for this years competition will be awarded at the Annual Coffee and Mince pie morning (not forgetting Tony's legendary brew) which takes place on Saturday 6th December. Please book mark this date in your diary, as it also provides us with the opportunity to update everyone about what is happening on site, the trading hut, and for fellow plot members to enjoy a relaxed morning before the relentless hurtle toward christmas.
Finally a big thank you to Alistair and Alison for giving up their time and energy to wander round our plots, and for everyone on site who help to make these things possible.
Allotment Competition 4th July
22nd March 2025
The annual Melbourne Park Allotment Competition will take place on 4th July. The rules for the competition are really straightforward, with two categories only. The first for Association members under 18 months, and the second group for those more experienced plot holders on site.
To be included in the competition you must be a current member of the Association and your plot number(s) must be clearly visible.
This year our judge will be Alistair and Alison Gillan. They have their own plot(s) at Hill Road, and belong to the wider Chelmsford Allotment group established to try and provide a uniform voice to the council in relation to Allotment sites in Chelmsford. Alistair is also a film producer and put together over the course of 18 months a film in relation to allotments in Chelmsford together with the benefits these pieces of land can provide to users in terms of their personal health, mental wellbeing and the general importance attached to these green spaces. His film, Losing the Plot, was officially selected for the British Cultural Film Festival in 2023.
22nd March 2025
In: General News
The annual Melbourne Park Allotment Competition will take place on 4th July. The rules for the competition are really straightforward, with two categories only. The first for Association members under 18 months, and the second group for those more experienced plot holders on site.
To be included in the competition you must be a current member of the Association and your plot number(s) must be clearly visible.
This year our judge will be Alistair and Alison Gillan. They have their own plot(s) at Hill Road, and belong to the wider Chelmsford Allotment group established to try and provide a uniform voice to the council in relation to Allotment sites in Chelmsford. Alistair is also a film producer and put together over the course of 18 months a film in relation to allotments in Chelmsford together with the benefits these pieces of land can provide to users in terms of their personal health, mental wellbeing and the general importance attached to these green spaces. His film, Losing the Plot, was officially selected for the British Cultural Film Festival in 2023.
Trading Hut Opens Wednesday Evenings from April
19th March 2025
19th March 2025
In: General News
Trading Hut Opens Wednesday Evenings from 2nd April from 7 to 8pm.
Following the successful experiment last year for opening the trading hut mid week,
Melbourne Park Allotment Association is pleased to advise the trading hut will open on Wednesday evenings, from the 2nd April from 7pm to 8pm. If you struggle to visit us at all for your purchases or a chat at the weekend, it is hoped this additional opening will resolve such an issue and be useful and well supported by members.
Pat Tilley and Brian Pickford have volunteered to man the shop for everyone, and they would welcome your visit and support.
The trading hut continues to be well stocked with composts, protective netting, weed suppressant fabrics, fertilisers, timber and all manner of other items, including second hand tools, competitively priced.
Following the successful experiment last year for opening the trading hut mid week,
Melbourne Park Allotment Association is pleased to advise the trading hut will open on Wednesday evenings, from the 2nd April from 7pm to 8pm. If you struggle to visit us at all for your purchases or a chat at the weekend, it is hoped this additional opening will resolve such an issue and be useful and well supported by members.
Pat Tilley and Brian Pickford have volunteered to man the shop for everyone, and they would welcome your visit and support.
The trading hut continues to be well stocked with composts, protective netting, weed suppressant fabrics, fertilisers, timber and all manner of other items, including second hand tools, competitively priced.
Visit to Hyde Hall 2nd August
15th March 2025
15th March 2025
In: General News
The Allotment Association is once again planning to visit Hyde Hall in 2025. Over the last few years this has been a regular fixture in the Allotment diary, and we hope that members will continue to support this activity.
We are planning to visit on Saturday August 2nd which coincides with the third day of the RHS Hyde Hall Flower Show. We have provisionally requested 25 places, and as with previous years the visit is completely free to members of the Melbourne Park Allotment Association, and will meet as before outside the cafe at 09.45.
If you would like to attend, could you please book with Tony or Karen at the Trading Hut by Sunday 22nd June to give us time to organise the correct number of tickets for a group booking.
Besides the flower show, there are of course the gardens to visit, and there will be various demonstrations and talks in the marquee during the day.
We are planning to visit on Saturday August 2nd which coincides with the third day of the RHS Hyde Hall Flower Show. We have provisionally requested 25 places, and as with previous years the visit is completely free to members of the Melbourne Park Allotment Association, and will meet as before outside the cafe at 09.45.
If you would like to attend, could you please book with Tony or Karen at the Trading Hut by Sunday 22nd June to give us time to organise the correct number of tickets for a group booking.
Besides the flower show, there are of course the gardens to visit, and there will be various demonstrations and talks in the marquee during the day.
Discounted RHS Entry fees 2025
04th March 2025
At the last Annual General Meeting it was agreed we continue to renew our annual membership and insurance through the RHS, which apart from the cover provides the Association and members with other benefits. One of those benefits being discounted access to RHS and affiliated sites through the year.
The Discount card is available for use by all members of the Association, and can be collected from the Trading Hut from Tony Holbrook or Karen Lawrence. There is a refundable £10 deposit for the card's use.
The card has unlimited use and can be used at all of RHS and affiliated sites, but cannot be used for Flower shows, Glow experiences.
We hope that members may take advantage of this offer which is available until February 2026.
04th March 2025
In: General News
At the last Annual General Meeting it was agreed we continue to renew our annual membership and insurance through the RHS, which apart from the cover provides the Association and members with other benefits. One of those benefits being discounted access to RHS and affiliated sites through the year.
The Discount card is available for use by all members of the Association, and can be collected from the Trading Hut from Tony Holbrook or Karen Lawrence. There is a refundable £10 deposit for the card's use.
The card has unlimited use and can be used at all of RHS and affiliated sites, but cannot be used for Flower shows, Glow experiences.
We hope that members may take advantage of this offer which is available until February 2026.
Christmas Coffee Morning (and AGM)
14th December 2024
Dave Ling with Matthew Tingey and Karen Lawrence, winners of the 2024 Allotment Competition trophies.
14th December 2024
In: General News
Dave Ling with Matthew Tingey and Karen Lawrence, winners of the 2024 Allotment Competition trophies.
With storms raging across the country, several high profile events cancelled or abandoned as a consequence, we can advise that yet again the Christmas Coffee morning and AGM took place, with no hint of interference from the weather.
A good turn out, in abysmal conditions, allowed members of the Association to enjoy various food and refreshment, and of course took advantage of Tony's now legendary Mulled Wine.
Members got to hear an update of events on site, including the latest in terms of the building development beyond our boundaries, and also an update on the Association finances.
There were also a host of thank you to a number of people on site who without their invaluable support we would struggle to keep the facilities we enjoy. The individuals who on a rota system, clean the cabin throughout the year, and others who also assist in the trading hut during the course of the year.
After the AGM was closed (completed in a new record time for our 20th year) the Annual competition winners were presented with their trophies, and to wrap the morning up a free raffle draw took place.
A huge thank you to Dave, Chris, Joan, for all their help in getting the trading hut into shape for the event and their contributions through the year.
The only thing left is to wish everyone on site all the very best of seasons greetings, and a happy, healthy and hearty growing season to come in 2025.
A good turn out, in abysmal conditions, allowed members of the Association to enjoy various food and refreshment, and of course took advantage of Tony's now legendary Mulled Wine.
Members got to hear an update of events on site, including the latest in terms of the building development beyond our boundaries, and also an update on the Association finances.
There were also a host of thank you to a number of people on site who without their invaluable support we would struggle to keep the facilities we enjoy. The individuals who on a rota system, clean the cabin throughout the year, and others who also assist in the trading hut during the course of the year.
After the AGM was closed (completed in a new record time for our 20th year) the Annual competition winners were presented with their trophies, and to wrap the morning up a free raffle draw took place.
A huge thank you to Dave, Chris, Joan, for all their help in getting the trading hut into shape for the event and their contributions through the year.
The only thing left is to wish everyone on site all the very best of seasons greetings, and a happy, healthy and hearty growing season to come in 2025.
Trading Hut Christmas and New Year Opening
01st December 2024
01st December 2024
In: General News
A quick reminder in relation to the trading hut and opening times over the christmas and New Year period.
The hut will not open on Sundays from December 8th and will remain closed on Sundays through to 23rd February.
The Trading Hut will also be closed over the christmas period (21st and 28th December) and will re open Saturday 4th January 2025.
Season greetings to all
The hut will not open on Sundays from December 8th and will remain closed on Sundays through to 23rd February.
The Trading Hut will also be closed over the christmas period (21st and 28th December) and will re open Saturday 4th January 2025.
Season greetings to all
Pruning Day
01st December 2024
01st December 2024
In: General News
After adverse weather conditions caused us to abandon the pruning session the previous week, we were blessed with much better weather this week to allow the community orchard to be pruned and tidied up. Huge thanks to Foggy, Peter H, Peter C and Joan for the expertise and to John Lodge, Derek Frost, Richard Harris, Dave Ling, Ian Gill, Tony Holbrook and Karen Holbrook for getting stuck in.
we also took four of the original trees out as their spread was encroaching on each other and was making it pretty difficult to maintain the area.
The pruning were used to bolster the exposed areas of fencing at various points on site, and with many hands making light work we also managed to give the area a strim and cut.
Thank you to everyone who took part,
The pruning were used to bolster the exposed areas of fencing at various points on site, and with many hands making light work we also managed to give the area a strim and cut.
Thank you to everyone who took part,
Xmas Coffee and Mince Pie Morning - 7th December
01st October 2024
The Association is once again pleased to host the Christmas Coffee and Mince pie Morning on Saturday 7th December. This annual event is due to start at 10 o clock on Saturday and is free to all Association members. As with the last couple of years we also include a very brisk overview of the year at the site, plus award the trophies for the Annual Allotment Competition held earlier in the year.
Please put the date in your diary to ensure you don't miss a pleasant morning, with refreshments available including the now legendary Mulled Wine brewed by Tony Holbrook.
It's a good opportunity to catch up with your fellow plot holders, hear the latest information from the Association about the year on site, and support for fellow plot holders as they receive their certificates and trophies, and leave all the stress and mayhem leading up to the Christmas period at the gates for a few hours.
we look forward to seeing everyone on the morning,
01st October 2024
In: General News
The Association is once again pleased to host the Christmas Coffee and Mince pie Morning on Saturday 7th December. This annual event is due to start at 10 o clock on Saturday and is free to all Association members. As with the last couple of years we also include a very brisk overview of the year at the site, plus award the trophies for the Annual Allotment Competition held earlier in the year.
Please put the date in your diary to ensure you don't miss a pleasant morning, with refreshments available including the now legendary Mulled Wine brewed by Tony Holbrook.
It's a good opportunity to catch up with your fellow plot holders, hear the latest information from the Association about the year on site, and support for fellow plot holders as they receive their certificates and trophies, and leave all the stress and mayhem leading up to the Christmas period at the gates for a few hours.
we look forward to seeing everyone on the morning,
Hyde Hall Visit
03rd August 2024
As part of our Affiliate membership of the RHS, we are fortunate to be able to take members to an RHS garden of our choice, and of course Hyde Hall is the natural choice for us. Seventeen (plus a couple who visited on their own membership pass) took up the offer to visit Hyde Hall this year, and as last year the day was planned to co - incide with the annual flower show.
03rd August 2024
In: General News
As part of our Affiliate membership of the RHS, we are fortunate to be able to take members to an RHS garden of our choice, and of course Hyde Hall is the natural choice for us. Seventeen (plus a couple who visited on their own membership pass) took up the offer to visit Hyde Hall this year, and as last year the day was planned to co - incide with the annual flower show.
With lots of different exhibitors, food and drink outlets, plus the show marquee where guest speakers and RHS experts were available to answer visitor questions. The weather proved to be very kind to us, not too hot, and despite a fine sprinkling or rain in the morning, hopefully a good day was had by all.
The vegetable garden and greenhouse this year looked in tip top condition.
A huge thank you to Karen Lawrence for organising and for members supporting the event.
The vegetable garden and greenhouse this year looked in tip top condition.
A huge thank you to Karen Lawrence for organising and for members supporting the event.
Trading Hut Closed 3rd August
30th July 2024
The annual Association visit to Hyde Hall takes place on 3rd August and as a consequence the trading hut will be closed on this Saturday. It will re open as usual on Sunday Morning.
30th July 2024
In: General News
The annual Association visit to Hyde Hall takes place on 3rd August and as a consequence the trading hut will be closed on this Saturday. It will re open as usual on Sunday Morning.
Allotment Competition Result 2024
24th July 2024
24th July 2024
In: General News
The Melbourne Park Annual Allotment competition was judged on Tuesday 9th July, and as with all previous years the competition was split into two groups, plotholders who have held the plot for less than 18 months, and a second group for those more experienced plot holders (over 18 months).
Our judge this year was Stuart Challis, a long time plot owner and member at Melbourne Park Allotments, who himself had won the allotment competition on numerous occasions during his tenancy at the site.
In the less than 18 months category Janos and Tundy Sandor (plot 62) finished second to Matthew and Rachel Tingey (plot 19).
In the over 18 months category, Peter Hunnable and Peter Caffrey were placed third and second respectively, with the winner Karen Lawrence.
Our judge this year was Stuart Challis, a long time plot owner and member at Melbourne Park Allotments, who himself had won the allotment competition on numerous occasions during his tenancy at the site.
In the less than 18 months category Janos and Tundy Sandor (plot 62) finished second to Matthew and Rachel Tingey (plot 19).
In the over 18 months category, Peter Hunnable and Peter Caffrey were placed third and second respectively, with the winner Karen Lawrence.
Congratulations to everyone. Stuart commented on the high quality and variety of crops being grown across the site and wished everyone well. On behalf of the Allotment Association we offer Stuart a huge thank you for giving up his time to come and cast his eye over the plots for us.
The trophies and certificates will be awarded at the Annual Mince Pie and coffee morning on the first saturday in December, so please mark this date in your diary to enjoy the fare, support your fellow plot holders and catch up on all the news regarding the site. The Morning is free to all Association Members and features the now legendary Mulled Wine prepared by Tony Holbrook. (probably best not to drive afterwards!!)
We look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday 7th December, and our hearty congratulations to all the above, and to everyone else on site for the care and effort taken on your respective plots.
The trophies and certificates will be awarded at the Annual Mince Pie and coffee morning on the first saturday in December, so please mark this date in your diary to enjoy the fare, support your fellow plot holders and catch up on all the news regarding the site. The Morning is free to all Association Members and features the now legendary Mulled Wine prepared by Tony Holbrook. (probably best not to drive afterwards!!)
We look forward to seeing everyone on Saturday 7th December, and our hearty congratulations to all the above, and to everyone else on site for the care and effort taken on your respective plots.
Community Orchard
10th July 2024
You can't help to notice over recent months the community orchard has gradually been taken over by the long grass. Thanks to the sterling efforts of Chris Perrin and Ray, the area has now been fully strimmed and then mowed to make it look considerably more easy on the eye.
Additional to this we owe a huge thank you to Chris Perrin who earlier in the year tidied up the original insect hotel which was built in the midst of the orchard and returned it closer to it's former self. All the intrusive weeds, brambles and other growths removed.
10th July 2024
In: General News
You can't help to notice over recent months the community orchard has gradually been taken over by the long grass. Thanks to the sterling efforts of Chris Perrin and Ray, the area has now been fully strimmed and then mowed to make it look considerably more easy on the eye.
Additional to this we owe a huge thank you to Chris Perrin who earlier in the year tidied up the original insect hotel which was built in the midst of the orchard and returned it closer to it's former self. All the intrusive weeds, brambles and other growths removed.
Trading Hut closes on Wednesday Evenings
09th July 2024
Brian and Pat have now brought to a close the opening of the trading hut on Wednesday evenings. The footfall has generally fallen off over the last few weeks which has led to the decision to close for this season.
We will be re opening the trading hut on Wednesday evenings, from late March in 2025 and will broadcast definate dates closer to the time.
The trading hut continues to operate as usual at the weekends, Saturday and Sunday mornings from 10 am to 11 am.
A huge thank you to Brian Pickford and Pat Tilley for volunteering and opening the doors on Wednesdays.
09th July 2024
In: General News
Brian and Pat have now brought to a close the opening of the trading hut on Wednesday evenings. The footfall has generally fallen off over the last few weeks which has led to the decision to close for this season.
We will be re opening the trading hut on Wednesday evenings, from late March in 2025 and will broadcast definate dates closer to the time.
The trading hut continues to operate as usual at the weekends, Saturday and Sunday mornings from 10 am to 11 am.
A huge thank you to Brian Pickford and Pat Tilley for volunteering and opening the doors on Wednesdays.
Allotment Competition 9th July
18th June 2024
18th June 2024
In: General News
Allotment Competition 9th July 2024
A quick reminder to everyone the Annual Allotment Competition is due to be judged on 9th July. As previous years there are two categories, one for newcomers, who have been members for less than 18 months, and the second for those who have been members for greater than 18 months.
It is essential your plot is marked clearly with your plot number, and your membership fees are up to date. Best of Luck to everyone.
This year the competition will be judged by a good friend and ex plot holder of Melbourne Park, Stuart Challis, who in fact won the competition on various occasions during his tenure on site.
A quick reminder to everyone the Annual Allotment Competition is due to be judged on 9th July. As previous years there are two categories, one for newcomers, who have been members for less than 18 months, and the second for those who have been members for greater than 18 months.
It is essential your plot is marked clearly with your plot number, and your membership fees are up to date. Best of Luck to everyone.
This year the competition will be judged by a good friend and ex plot holder of Melbourne Park, Stuart Challis, who in fact won the competition on various occasions during his tenure on site.
Trading Hut Opens Wednesday Evening
25th April 2024
25th April 2024
In: General News
Melbourne Park Allotment Association is pleased to advise the trading hut will open on Wednesday evenings, from the 1st May from 7pm to 8pm. If you struggle to visit us at all for your purchases or a chat at the weekend, it is hoped this additional opening will resolve such an issue and be useful and well supported by members.
Pat Tilley and Brian Pickford have volunteered to man the shop for everyone, and they would welcome your visit and support.
The trading hut continues to be well stocked with composts, protective netting, weed suppressant fabrics, fertilisers, timber and all manner of other items, including second hand tools, competitively priced.
Pat Tilley and Brian Pickford have volunteered to man the shop for everyone, and they would welcome your visit and support.
The trading hut continues to be well stocked with composts, protective netting, weed suppressant fabrics, fertilisers, timber and all manner of other items, including second hand tools, competitively priced.
Hyde Hall Flower Show Visit - 3rd August
19th March 2024
19th March 2024
In: General News
Hyde Hall Visit - 3rd August
We are organising a trip to RHS Hyde Hall which co - incides with their flower show on Sunday 3rd August. Using our affiliation with the Royal Horticultural Society, entrance is free on the day to us as a group. We have provisionally booked 20 spaces, and these are available on a first come, first serve basis. Please book at the Trading Hut via Tony or Karen by 7th July latest as we have to advise RHS Hyde Hall absolute numbers to secure our entry
No transport is provided, and as last year we plan to meet at the main entrance (at the top of the car park) to Hyde Hall at 09.45 sharp on the 3rd. We can then enter as a group via the group entrance point which is different from the public entry point.
As with last year there are various trade stands, entertainment, plus food and drink concessions on site during the day, together with a marquee featuring various speakers during the course of the event.
Everyone had an excellent day last year, and hope a many as possible will join us this year.
We are organising a trip to RHS Hyde Hall which co - incides with their flower show on Sunday 3rd August. Using our affiliation with the Royal Horticultural Society, entrance is free on the day to us as a group. We have provisionally booked 20 spaces, and these are available on a first come, first serve basis. Please book at the Trading Hut via Tony or Karen by 7th July latest as we have to advise RHS Hyde Hall absolute numbers to secure our entry
No transport is provided, and as last year we plan to meet at the main entrance (at the top of the car park) to Hyde Hall at 09.45 sharp on the 3rd. We can then enter as a group via the group entrance point which is different from the public entry point.
As with last year there are various trade stands, entertainment, plus food and drink concessions on site during the day, together with a marquee featuring various speakers during the course of the event.
Everyone had an excellent day last year, and hope a many as possible will join us this year.
Pat Holbrook
01st February 2024
It is with the great sadness we have to report the passing of Pat Holbrook. Since 2003 when Tony first became involved in the Allotments, Pat has been at his side, providing support, helping out with food and general assistance for the various events held, and latterly present at the Trading Hut over the weekends.
The funeral will be held at The Chelmsford Crematorium, South Chapel, Monday 18th March at 11.30 AM, with the Wake at the Ivy Hill Hotel after. If you plan to attend, remember Pat and celebrate her life, please let Karen know on 07919 083234.
We send our best wishes and condolences to Tony, Karen, family and friends at this sad time.
01st February 2024
In: General News
It is with the great sadness we have to report the passing of Pat Holbrook. Since 2003 when Tony first became involved in the Allotments, Pat has been at his side, providing support, helping out with food and general assistance for the various events held, and latterly present at the Trading Hut over the weekends.
The funeral will be held at The Chelmsford Crematorium, South Chapel, Monday 18th March at 11.30 AM, with the Wake at the Ivy Hill Hotel after. If you plan to attend, remember Pat and celebrate her life, please let Karen know on 07919 083234.
We send our best wishes and condolences to Tony, Karen, family and friends at this sad time.
Annual Mince Pie and Coffee Morning (& AGM)
02nd December 2023
The annual Mine pie and Coffee morning was held today and as previous years was well supported by fellow plot members. This feature of the Allotment Association calendar allows plot holders to get together for a pre christmas chat, with a spread of nibbles and importantly the opportunity to sample Tony's legendary mulled wine.
In addition to this, we have now rolled the AGM into this morning, and details of the year on site, visit to Hyde Hall, information on the latest developments at St Peter's college, together with the financial position of the Association were provided to all those in attendance.
At the end of the formalities, the trophies and certificates for the 2023 Allotment competition were awarded, and huge congratulations to all those plots which were recognised by this years judge.
Whilst this is an early advert for next year, this event takes place on the first Saturday in December, so mark it off in your diary.
We take the opportunity to wish all plot holders the very best of seasonal greetings,
02nd December 2023
In: General News
The annual Mine pie and Coffee morning was held today and as previous years was well supported by fellow plot members. This feature of the Allotment Association calendar allows plot holders to get together for a pre christmas chat, with a spread of nibbles and importantly the opportunity to sample Tony's legendary mulled wine.
In addition to this, we have now rolled the AGM into this morning, and details of the year on site, visit to Hyde Hall, information on the latest developments at St Peter's college, together with the financial position of the Association were provided to all those in attendance.
At the end of the formalities, the trophies and certificates for the 2023 Allotment competition were awarded, and huge congratulations to all those plots which were recognised by this years judge.
Whilst this is an early advert for next year, this event takes place on the first Saturday in December, so mark it off in your diary.
We take the opportunity to wish all plot holders the very best of seasonal greetings,