Record entry highlights Newcastle allotments
Sep 6 2010 by Amy Hunt, The Journal
THE biggest, the longest and the funniest, all were put before judges at one of the North East's biggest allotment show.
The Newcastle Allotment and Garden Show, now in its ninth year, saw a record 1,250 entries, up from 980 in 2009.
It brought together exhibits from keen gardeners and novice growers alike, from plump pumpkins and luscious leeks, to fabulous flower arrangements and pukka pickles and chutneys.
The show, organised by Newcastle’s Allotment Working Group and the city council, is aimed at anyone who grows their own and looks to celebrate locally-produced food.
Council recreation development officer Helen Raper, who helped organise the event, said: “A lot of allotment shows have closed down through lack of interest or funding, but this one is going from strength to strength.
“We get so many entries in all of the categories and so many people having a go for the first time.
“This year we’ve put on more things for children, because more and more families are coming to the event and we want people to be able to stay for longer.” Five-year-old Sam Campbell, from South Gosforth, scooped two prizes, best funny face made of vegetables and best children’s entry in show.
Dad Ian said: “We have had an allotment for most of Sam’s life.
“Now he’s older, he has his own little bit to grow things. He likes playing down there with this brother Daniel and sister Isobel.
“It gives them the chance to get out and find out how things grow, so they know fruit and veg doesn’t come from supermarkets.
“It’s not about being competitive, it’s about the fun of entering.”
Peter Kenny from Cramlington won the best pot leeks category for the second year running. He said: “Last year was the first time I had entered and I was so impressed with the show. It is a superb show with a smashing atmosphere.
“There’s something for everybody and it’s inspiring me to have a go at growing other things for next year.” Users of the Comfrey Project, which aims to help refugees and asylum seekers get used to life on Tyneside by getting them involved in community allotments, entered several categories, scooping the top prize for best patio planter.
Garden project worker Yvonne Hartnett said: “To enter a competition like this is great fun, it’s very accessible.
“We grow traditional vegetables and also give people the opportunity to grow things from their own countries.”
Shuhana Jalaldeen, who moved to Blakelaw from Sri Lanka in February and has been involved in the Comfrey Project since March, entered her lemon pickle. She said: “I like it very much.
“It has allowed me to meet people and settle in.”
Organisations like Healthworks, Active Newcastle, Northumberland Wildlife Trust and Groundwork were also on hand to give advice on healthy lifestyles and diets and looking after the natural environment.
