ALLOTMENT holders in Wellebourne will be showing off the fruits of their labours in their fight for survival.
Plot holders at the Kineton Road allotments will be welcoming visitors on Sunday June 17 for the National Open Garden Scheme. The day will be a chance to raise money for charity and also gather support in the fight against the threat of the land being sold to developers.
The historic allotments – rented from the Diocese of Coventry – are 180-years-old and among the oldest in the UK.
The day will also be a chance for plot holders to show the community importance of the allotments which are under threat from housing plans.
The diocese in a bid to compromise with allotment holders, is currently developing a proposal to extend the site at the back of existing plots, to compensate for land lost to the planned 50 houses.
A spokesperson said plot holders were waiting for written plans of the proposals which were ‘scant’.
Wellesbourne Allotment Association chairman Ian Hope said: “These allotments are much valued locally, yet continue to be under threat of development by Coventry Diocese.
“This is a chance to see the huge variety of produce we grow here and to find out about how allotments can contribute so much to community life and to have a great afternoon out.”
The open day will feature ten stone pumpkins, 1.5kg onions and strawberries, grown using renewable energy powered technology, among the produce along the site trail, as well as a recently developed dementia-friendly plot.
Other highlights include a scarecrow competition, live music from US3A Rock Choir, plant stalls, a prosecco van and other refreshments.
The open day runs from 2pm to 5pm, and entry is £4 (under 16s free).
Visit www.wellesbourneallotments.co.uk for further information.
