We got an Allotment!!!!

With our lawn at home in danger of being dug up even further to make way for vegetables, we decided to take the plunge and apply for an allotment.  We would peek through a gap in the gate at Priorswood Allotments and gaze wistfully at the bean poles, the compost bins and the vast expanses of the plots and sigh.  We had 4 lovely little raised beds at home, already nurturing some broad beans, peas, onions, garlic, winter carrots and spring cabbage but it all felt very restrictive and didnt allow us the luxury of planting decent amounts of crops.  We had expanded our little plot with potato grow bags, pots ready for climbing beans and a half barrel with rhubarb, not to mention the solo gooseberry bush, the cherry tree and pear tree but the thought of a large piece of land with all its opportunities was exciting.  We had the books, we had the magazines, we had the energy, we just needed an allotment.

I sent an email to Priorswood Allotment chairman and waited.  And waited.  And waited.  Then Simon emailed the council.  And waited with anticipation.  Then a phone call from Rowbarton Allotments offering us the chance to view their site, a wait of no more than a month or so really.  So on Valentines Day we went over to Rowbarton and met up with Dave at the gate and followed him around as he showed us the site and pointed out all the important bits, including a flushing toilet!  Apparently the only one in Taunton on an allotment.  He gave us the choice of 3 plots, someone had 'retired' and his plot was being divided into 3 more workable sized plots.   We considered carefully and eventually chose the first one in the row because it had the benefit of a small shed and a compost heap / rubbish pile of unknown content.  Close to the loo, close to the wheelbarrow shelter, close to a fresh water supply, sunny open site, just perfect.  Dave gave us our key and we made arrangements to come back on rent day on the next Sunday to pay.  The grand sum of £16.50 + £4 for the key.  Bargain!  We wandered around a bit more, taking in the communal bonfire, the knowledge that a fellow allotment holder brought free hops for compost from the local brewery and generally taking in the sights and sounds of a well run allotment.  Jane and Simon.  Allotment holders of Plot 69.  Excellent!  Just got to dig it up now!