Do you want to grow your own in Christchurch?

Christchurch has over 450 allotment plots situated at five sites across the borough. Allotments enable you to grow your own food and improve your family’s diet, says Christchurch and East Dorset Council. It is apparently also a great way of getting exercise, learning new skills and making friends.

Rutland Road allotment site in West Christchurch is one of the council’s five sites, which has over 100 plots. Why not consider having your own allotment? When fees start at just £33.75 per year, it might be something which you could contemplate.

Nikki Gardner, secretary for Rutland Road Allotments, said, “We have an active association which welcomes new members and offers support around managing your plot. Having an allotment can be hard work and during the summer months you need to dedicate at least five hours per week to your plot. However, here at Rutland Road we have many seasoned plot holders who are more than happy to share their years of experience with newbies!

“We organise social events for plot holders during the year, which include a summer barbeque, skittles and Mulled Wine & Mince Pie Sunday!”

Nikki Gardner is welcoming new applications. If you are interested in knowing more about having your own allotment, call Nikki on 07792 114162 or pop down to Rutland Road allotments on a Sunday morning between 10am and 12pm. You can have an informal chat and see how other people manage their allotment plot. To register for a plot at Rutland Road you must be a resident of Christchurch and not be on any other waiting lists. See their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/rutlandroadallotments/