Allotment-holder Susie Moore has received the trophy for “Best Allotment” from Robin Crinage, Chair of Hareham Gardens Allotments in Ruddington.
Susie has brought a previously neglected plot up to a high standard in just one year. Her hard work has been rewarded not only with the trophy but also with fruit, vegetables and flowers on her plot, which she has named “The Pink Shed”.
Susie says: “I’ve never understood why vegetables in supermarkets come wrapped in plastic, so I’ve always wanted to grow my own. However, living in a first floor flat in the centre of the village with no outdoor space prevented this.
“I put my name down on the list and soon got my allotment plot. It was in a pretty unloved state, but I, my sister and our dog, Ollie, took it on with great pride. The pandemic actually helped us as it gave us the time to really get into it. The need to be outside was strong in those times and our mental and physical health benefitted greatly.
“What makes it so special is that we’ve reused and recycled most things on the plot and so Little Pink Shed was born. Why buy new when you can paint an unloved shed pink, install lighting, a kettle and a gin shelf and you’re off to a great start!
“It’s safe to say that what we don’t know about gardening or allotments, we’ve made up for in enthusiasm. A bit of Gardener’s World also helps. Feel free to follow our allotment story on Instagram @little_pink_shed.”
If you’re a Ruddington resident and would like to join the waiting list for a plot at Hareham Gardens, please email Sarah at harehamgardensallotments@gmail.com.