As we move into 2026, it’s time for my annual look back on last year. On a personal note, 2025 brought fractured neck 2.0, but the help of my neighbours on the plot and friends from The Railway meant the year wasn’t a write off for me. The year started off quite well but the spring wasn’t as nice as previous years. But, as the spring gave way to the summer, we had plenty of nice sunny days, but little rain. Everyone was expecting a hosepipe ban but that never came and the harvests seemed to be pretty good, personally I was harvesting tomatoes from July to November and the salad crop was spectacular.
The closing of Homebase made the trading hut rather busy and we had to get a second order of compost and manure in the summer which had sold out by late autumn. We got a new mega order of compost and manure in early January. So, if anyone needs some the hut will be open 10.00am-12.00noon every Sunday morning from March.
We had a lovely open day in early July and a good turnout of members and visitors enjoying the BBQ and exploring the plots. We also had several BYO evening barbeques for members which were great fun. The Autumn Show was the fun it always is and there was a good number of entries, but we always want more. Remember it is the taking part, not the winning, that counts!
Several plots were given up last year and we got some new enthusiastic friends.
On a darker note, several plot holders reported things going missing, tools and some produce. I am assuming that it wasn’t members – but please be aware, anyone caught stealing will lose their plot.
All in all, it has been a lovely year on the S.V.P.O.A allotments and I can’t wait for the spring and it all to start again.
Peter Wagon
Chair of Allotments Committee