Having been invited to look at Lancing Manor allotments, I met with the " overseer " John on a bright morning in May 2019. These allotments ticked important boxes for me. They are a couple of minutes walk from my home, are well protected by modern fencing and security and are beautifully situated on the edge the South Downs National Park. Distant sea views are on offer. The land is an area behind the Manor House that was pulled down in the 1970s. Two blocks of allotments, opened several decades apart. All are on south facing, gently sloping land and are surrounded by trees around the perimeter and the wider area known locally as " Mcintyre's Field ". John told me that there were four allotments that he would like to show me, three in the top area and one in the lower. John opened the gate, took us about 20 metres and said that this was the first one. I straight away decided that this was it. Number 106. A number that had become important to me in my role 2006 / 2017 as Chairman of the local community association, being the route of the Compass bus that comes through our part of the village and onwards to either Worthing or Henfield. I had promoted its use for years and even organised shopping trips and walks for members to join in. So 106 it was. I did take a look at the other three plots but really my mind was set. I said " yes please " to John, who gave some kind word of encouragement and of realism about having a plot. I like people who share knowledge and John had forty two years of it. A considerable privilege to have John looking after us all. I took some photos and walked home planning away. Next day I had a key and made a start. These photos reflect that. All the while the clearance was going on thoughts appeared. Deep beds or borders ? Fruit cages ? Grow plants from seed or buy them in ? Big questions. More tomorrow
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AuthorI launched this website on 16th August 2020 to bring together my thoughts on gardening,, its importance for health and wellbeing and two projects running concurrently, a renovation of my own garden on the West Sussex coast at Lancing and a nearby allotment. But also to learn from other gardeners about the inspirations for their plots, about their gardening projects and enjoyment of beautiful plants and gardens Archives
February 2024
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