- Bob Jarvie, Brocketsbrae Allotment Working Group (AWG), Lesmahagow

What an exciting few months it’s been at Brocketsbrae allotment, Lesmahagow.

Access to the allotment was achieved in early July, yet with such a late start, the progress has been exceptional and more especially given such a poor summer.

Lesmahagow Development Trust’s vision and hard work with the funding bodies including the Heritage Lottery Fund supported Clyde and Avon Valley Landscape Partnership, and the Forestry Commission, has achieved an excellent facility for the community. The allotments are open to one and all in the area and what an eclectic mix of members it has attracted. Plot holders are from a whole range of backgrounds and occupations, not to miss out on their gardening skills.

The members range from a plasterer, civil servants, HGV driver, Scouts, IT specialist, lawyer, retired, BBC employee (he keeps his role secret as he may be famous). However, at the allotment, all are equal. Last but by no means least, we have our very own policeman that I used to chase from my garden when he was a boy!

Turning to the gardening skills, it’s difficult to know where to start as they are as diverse as the members. The skill’s range from absolutely no gardening knowledge, to experienced.

One special plot is that of the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) right in the middle of the allotment run by volunteers and is one of the gems of the site.

Despite the late start and terrible summer weather there’s been quite an abundance of produce however the growing season is coming to an end and work is now closing down for the winter.