The Committee are delighted to have received the results for the South & South East in Bloom - RHS 'It's Your Neighbourhood' competition 2023, in which Millfield Allotments Association regained its 'Outstanding' result!
The competition is judged on three areas:
1) Community Participation (40% of overall mark), where Millfield scored 35/40.
2) Environmental Responsibility (30% of overall mark), where Millfield scored 25/30.
3) Gardening Achievement (30% of overall mark), where Millfield scored 26/30.
The Association was praised in a number of areas. It was recognised that the Garden Room could be of significant local benefit, particularly if local art groups are welcomed to make use of the space, and our plans for gardening talks and demonstrations for local residents and allotmenteers alike are accomplished.
Our new website and revamped Facebook group will also help with local engagement, and this was also commended.
It was also noted that plots are all occupied and being inspected effectively, as well as successful management of the waiting list.
Our environmental initiatives, including the sourcing of water butts from Southeast Water, the installation of bird boxes, and our new plastic tray recycling scheme involving local nurseries, were all praised by judges.
A few areas for development were noted including further development of the Garden Room to include solar panels and a small kitchen space, which would allow the building to be used for a wider variety of purposes.
The judges also recognised that whilst The Committee plans to appoint a schools liaison officer to start working with local schools, this has not been completed as of yet, but will be made a priority.
Millfield had dropped down to 'Thriving' in 2022, so we are please to be back at the top in 'Outstanding' again this year. Well done everyone, and thank you for all of your hard work in the 2023 season!