Allotment holders celebrate a century of growth and community spirit

Allotment plot holders came together last week to mark 100 years of community spirit, sustainability and gardening excellence in Stoke-on-Trent.

The competition was held across the city’s allotments with awards taking place at Dolly’s Lane in Burslem and Fenpark in Fenton. Entries showcased the city’s Centenary alongside vibrant vegetable plots, floral displays and creative designs.

Plot holders were joined by the city’s Centenary mascot, Kelvin the Kiln; city council allotments champion Councillor Sarah Hill and Fenton East ward councillor Mubsira Aumir, as the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Steve Watkins, presented prizes to competition winners.

Some winners received a special Centenary mug created by Moorland Pottery – and presented by the company’s co-founder Jon Plant – to mark 100 years of city status.

Councillor Hill was also presented with a plaque to honour her services as allotment champion.

Dolly’s Lane and Buxton Street won Most Awesome site and Fenpark won Most Community site.

Councillor Sarah Hill, allotments champion at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Allotments are really important community assets. They boost health and wellbeing, bring people together and provide fresh, sustainable food.

“It was wonderful to see the fantastic ways people have used their plots and to celebrate their achievements. It’s especially fitting that Dolly’s Lane allotments is 100 years old this year. Some things may have changed but allotments remain at the heart of community life.

“It was also a privilege to be presented with a plaque for my own work with the allotments team. I’m really passionate about allotments and the contributions they make to our communities – supporting local residents and helping people live independent lives for longer.”

Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Steve Watkins, said: “It’s an honour to be Lord Mayor of our brilliant city in its Centenary year and events like this really help us to bring the celebrations to the heart of our local communities.

“We’re one of the greenest city’s in the UK and we’re very lucky to have lots of green space, including our allotments. They support people’s physical and mental health and foster a sense of pride in our communities.”

For more events in the Centenary programme go to sot100.org.uk