Article Submitted by Andrew ( Free seeds on their way )

The elation ! The thrill ! The phone Call from the Manager Telling you that the four years long wait is over and you have an allotment ! An immediate inspection with all the family was called for.  Notwithstanding it was -2C and nearly dark, but we went anyway. Yes, We'll Take it, Thanks!

Then came the long list of new & extra crops we could now grow having just scaled up from 30 square Meters to 200 Square meters ( plus the original plot)

Potatoes, new, early & main crop. Berlottis, Comfrey, Kale, Celeriac, Squash, Pumpkin, peas, Shallots, Cardoon (Ok, I'm reaching here...)

The Shock! The Cold Water poured all over us! A full survey of the site in the cold light of day reveals many things; the plot has not been tended for 2 long years. The weeds are incredible. So is the junk that has been left.  I tweeted in frustration, a Message to the former occupants:

1. Nettles are not vegetables

2. Dog P**P is not manure,

3. Wild Rabbits are not Livestock and

4. Empty Lager cans (167 of them) are not affective bird scarers if left in the water butts...

However, undaunted, the junk & offensive items removed, the first 8 meters dug & cleared, fences restored, rabbits " disincentivised" and the plot looks much better.

The 4 stroke tiller is assembled and the weed-killer is waiting for a warm and still day. The soil has been tested and despite the neglect is good & alkali, with a good balance of nutrients.

We are now looking forward to a great growing season & hundred weights of produce!   May you all be as lucky in 2012 !