Green-fingered gardeners, families and local residents came together on Saturday [5 July] for the Hailsham Allotment Society’s popular Annual Summer Show, celebrating another successful growing season and the thriving allotment community within the town.
Held at the Battle Road allotment site and officially opened by the Deputy Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Colin Mitchell, the event showcased the impressive talents of local plot holders, who proudly displayed a colourful array of home-grown fruit, vegetables, flowers and produce in a friendly competition judged across a range of classes.
Throughout the afternoon, visitors had the opportunity to explore the allotment site, meet experienced growers and pick up practical gardening advice while enjoying refreshments in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Society members were on hand to answer questions, demonstrate the benefits of allotment gardening and inspire more people to consider growing their own produce.
The annual event once again highlighted the important role allotments play in bringing people together, encouraging healthier lifestyles and supporting wildlife and biodiversity, while providing an affordable and rewarding outdoor pastime for people of all ages.
Councillor Mitchell said: “It was a pleasure to officially open this year’s Summer Show and to see so many people enjoying the event. The standard of entries was excellent and reflected the enthusiasm, dedication and hard work of our allotment holders throughout the growing season.”
“Events like this demonstrate that allotments are about far more than growing fruit and vegetables. They help build friendships, improve physical and mental wellbeing, encourage sustainable living and create a real sense of community. I’d like to congratulate everyone who took part and thank the Hailsham Allotment Society for organising another successful show.”
Hailsham Town Council currently manages 97 allotment plots across three sites in the town, providing residents with valuable opportunities to grow their own food, enjoy outdoor recreation and support environmentally sustainable living.
The allotment sites are located at:
Plots are available in either three-rod or five-rod sizes, making them suitable for both new and experienced gardeners.
Councillor Mitchell added: “The Town Council remains committed to maintaining high-quality allotment sites and ensuring that residents have the opportunity to enjoy the many benefits that allotment gardening can bring. Whether you’re an experienced grower or just starting out, having an allotment is a rewarding way to spend time outdoors, grow fresh produce and become part of a welcoming community.”
Residents interested in renting an allotment are encouraged to join the waiting list.
Plots are available in two standard sizes: 3 rods or 5 rods. Annual rental costs are £24 for a 3-rod plot and £41 for a 5-rod plot. New tenants are asked to pay a £50 refundable deposit, returned when the plot is vacated in a satisfactory condition.
Residents interested in joining the allotment waiting list can contact Hailsham Town Council on 01323 841702 or by email.
Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk