GREEN-FINGERED residents can have the chance to have their growing queries answered by Radio 4 gardening personality Stefan Buczaki.
As part of Wellesbourne Allotments National Garden Scheme Open Day, Gardener’s Question Time presenter Prof Buczaki will be making an appearance at the site on Sunday August 1.
Visitors are invited to pick their way through the seven acre site along the special Allotment Trail, checking out plots and sheds featured on the BBC Countryfile, casting their vote in the scarecrow competition and exploring how plot holders are responding to climate change with a wealth of homegrown fruit and veg.
This year children will be able to join in specially designed workshops which explore food, the natural world and climate change on their new organic children’s allotment plot.
Other highlights include the grand tea marquee, live music from Stratford’s choir Amicantus, plant and produce stalls, local cider and all important ice cream.
Being socially distanced by nature, allotments have been one of the very few communities to remain active during the whole of the pandemic.
Chairman Ian Hope said: ‘These allotments have been a real haven to our plot holders during the pandemic, nourishing them both mentally and physically with healthy exercise, fresh food and companionship. We feel it’s particularly important right now to open our gates and share this beautiful and therapeutic outdoor space. In line with the latest guidance, we have taken great care to ensure we provide a Covid secure environment for our open day, where everyone can feel safe to enjoy a great afternoon out.”
The association has seen a surge in plot applications over lockdown, with more than 55 people on the waiting list and its Dementia-Friendly Plot now part of a social prescribing programme at the local GP practice.
Ian added: “Now more than ever, people recognise allotments offer an oasis for the soul, where people can reconnect with nature and how they form an essential part of the social glue that connects, shapes and strengthens communities. Whilst residents are queuing up for a plot here, the threat of development has not been removed by the land owners, The Diocese of Coventry, despite their recent acknowledgement of the significant benefits our allotments provide to the Wellesbourne community.”
Doors open at 2pm. Entry is £4 for those 17 and over.
Visitors can hand in their questions for Stefan on arrival before 2.30pm. Visit www.wellesbourneallotments.co.uk for a question form.
