OUR TOP PLOTTERS

Last summer we launched a competition to find our Top Plotters, with the top three winning some great prizes and all being featured in Kitchen Garden magazine this year. Here we feature one of our runners-up...

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LAURA LEWIS FROM SOUTH GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Laura and her husband, Mike, only took on their allotment last year, but in that short time it has already transformed their lives. With no previous experience of growing they've learned quickly with the help of fellow plotters, and now enjoy tackling their large plot together with their schnauzer, Lewlew. They are often joined by their grandchildren too. Despite complex health challenges, Laura says the allotment has brought huge physical and mental benefits along with bumper crops and plenty of family memories.

Do you tend your plot on your own? If not, who helps you?

Me, my husband Mike, and our Schnauzer, Lewlew, tend our plot together.

Do you have an allotment, or a vegetable plot in your garden?

Our allotment plot is approximately 108 feet by 24 feet. Our site is 145 years old and is still owned by the local Diocese. In 1878, the Reverend Austin Leigh (a relation of Jane Austen) established the cottage gardens and granted them to the poorer villagers to encourage self-sufficiency. There are now over 100 plots managed by people of all ages and from all walks of life.

How long have you been growing veg?