Future events

Present

Heather Davies, Treasurer, Sue Morris, Secretary, Kay West, Chair, Jane Lacey, Jane Thorley-Watkins, Andy Watkins

1

Apologies & Minutes

Apologies received from S. Sidebotham.

The minutes of the last meeting were circulated, read and approved.

2

Matters arising

Sue has still not been able to discuss the Association web-site with Chris Preece.

“It’s Your Neighbourhood” award judging took place on July 15^th. The results will be announced on September 22^nd.

Plot Awards also judged by David and Lesley.

Judging the Environmentally and Wildlife friendly categories was difficult. Proposed to ask Members to give written permission to go on to their plot if they wish to be considered for this award. For this, you need to be an association member for insurance purposes.

Security marking by community Police officers took place on July 19^th.

Produce Show – better supported this year with quite a few entries and new people participating. Certificates to be presented at Harvest Supper.

3

Membership report

There are 27 paid-up members but 24 currently active plot holders.

National Association membership has been paid and King’s Seed catalogues have been delivered to Jane.

Jane told us about a photographic competition run by the National Association. Photos of seasonal Autumn/Winter scenes at the allotment can be submitted via the National Association Web-site by October 21^st. The prize is a pack of Christmas cards.

 4

Treasurer’s report

Current bank balance £1492.93. The cost of National Membership was £84.

Cash Balance £257.18

£200 will be needed for the next muck order.

5

Site Matters

11 people on the waiting list but no vacant plots.

Purchase of suitable wildlife/security cameras still pending.

Hawthorn whips have been ordered to plant into perimeter hedge to make it more secure. Grounds staff will plant in the Autumn.

Some plot holders have been dumping their weeds and grass cuttings in the hedge. This causes extra work for Council staff so it was agreed to provide signage to discouraging what is essentially fly-tipping.

A mock-up of the swap table notice is being prepared in preparation for sending to the sign-writer.

The inaccurate “No dogs allowed” sign at the entrance gate will be corrected by use of white tape.

Julie is working on a suitable safe-guarding policy.

Subject to approval by the Council Environmental Committee, NHS will be using Plot 32a for social prescribing activities. This will be organised and supervised by NHS staff.

6.

King’s Seed Catalogues

The delivery of the catalogues to Association Members was organised amongst those present.

Please can members get their orders to Jane Lacey at Rockhaven, Hereford Road by 21^st October. This ensures our association receives a larger percentage of the order price. There will be a later date if you cannot manage the earlier one.

7

Painting the community shed

Some refugees living locally would like to help to paint our shed. Kay to find paint, Jane L has a step ladder, Sue M has brushes and one overall. More old clothing would be useful for use as overalls. Sue to liaise with Kathy Bland to set a date.

8

Hedgehog Care

An information sheet will be issued at the Harvest Supper.

9

Fundraising

Much of our produce is over early because of the hot dry summer so no car boot sale in the Autumn. It is proposed to take part in a car boot sale in the Spring. Please can members plan to donate seedlings and preserves.

10

Forthcoming events

Town Council would prefer postponing a 20^th anniversary of the opening of the allotments until the 25^th anniversary. Heather suggested raising a glass to celebrate the 20^th anniversary at the Harvest Supper.

Harvest Supper booked at Forbury on Friday, October 9^th at 7 pm. All are welcome. Allotment awards will be given out at this event. Please can plot holders of even numbered plots bring desserts and odd numbered plots bring savoury food.

A small group of committee members will get together to organise nearer the time.

11

Next Meeting

11^th November 7pm in the Council Art Gallery.

12

AOB

Sue has obtained a quote of £200 for delivery of two loads of cow manure from a local farmer. The cost of the manure in 2025/6 was barely met so it was proposed to continue to charge £2 per barrow but without the discount for 10 barrows. Signs need to be in place before the delivery. Sue to liaise with the farmer.

Kay thanked the members for their attendance and closed the meeting at 8.10pm.

Day

Date

Event and venue

Time

Friday

9th October

Harvest Supper, The Forbury

7pm

Wednesday

11th November

Meeting, Town Council offices

7pm