Well, another Redhill Allotments open day has been and gone, and despite the best efforts of the weather to spoil things I think everyone would consider it to be a success. On the whole credit for this has to go to everyone who helped in the organising and smooth running of the day. Thanks to all.
Not only was the day an opportunity to reach out to new members but a chance to interact with the local community and a chance for many of the plot holders to get together on a social basis for the first time and reacquaint themselves with old friends (with a little, gentle competition thrown in for good measure).

All the usual suspects were there with regards stalls; plants, home grown produce, jams & pickles, tombola, good as new, books, teas, cakes, hot-dogs, curries. And fortunately a good number of gazebos providing shelter for helpers and visitors. If anything the 'inclement' weather helped to bring people together.
I'm not sure how much of the money raised on the day was down to plot holders rather than visitors, but I for one certainly made use of the book, plant, tea, cake, hot-dog and curry stalls. And judging by how much was left at the end of the day I wasn't the only one.

If anything, I would say visitor numbers were up on the previous year, and given the weather conditions these were obviously people with a mission in mind rather than just random passers by. I'm sure this is something that will be confirmed once we get the final numbers for funds raised and plots let and I may be a little premature in saying this but a waiting list for plots can't be too far away now.

Our Society president had a busy day judging both the scarecrow and plot plaque competitions and despite not winning myself wouldn't want to argue with any of his decisions. Hopefully the plot plaques will stop all the wondering about which plot is which and should help people get to know their neighbours. With any luck the scarecrows will also prove useful on site, although these may not be as long lasting as some of the plaques.
At this point I would like to ask all plots to please put up a number on their plot, if possible, when they get the chance.

Have a look on the gallery section to see what went on during the day and please feel free to add to the forum with your comments on the day.
Any other pictures, recipes, ideas and comments can be sent to info@redhillallotments.co.uk