Allotments group to be formed

You know it's going to be a good meeting when the organisers are having to put out extra chairs as people flock in. Even more so when another ten families have sent apologies and best wishes have been emailed from Australia – by a local family out there on a visit who want an allotment in Audlem.

Ruth Kemble and Christine Johnson, who have been carrying out the spadework to test the feasibility of a new allotment facility in the village, described the story so far and led the discussion on whether an Allotments Association be formed. It was agreed by all that the step should be taken although Ruth and Christine should continue to run matters until a committee is in place.

The two have visited a number of sites elsewhere to gather information and, so far, 44 families have expressed an interest in having a plot. It was decided that 'half standard' plots of about 150 square yards were an appropriate choice as those wanting something larger could apply for extra plots.

Being part of a national association, the audience was told, attracts many benefits from good quality seed to deals on insurance and machinery, for example, as well as help with planning applications etc.

Two sites in the village have been identified as having potential and an application for grant funding has already been submitted to Crewe & Nantwich Borough Council. Other sources of funding will also be considered. Audlem Online will provide regular updates on progress while, in the meantime, if you are interested in possibly having an allotment, you can register that interest, with no obligation, with Ruth Kemble (811887) or Christine Johnson (811774).

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