Prize-winning plots

Cheltenham Borough Council runs an allotment competition every year.

It is open to all allotment holders on sites run by the council.

The site wardens nominate plots for best new tenant, general and senior gardener. There are also trophies for best kept site, best warden plot, best community plot and more.

Points are given for range and quality of fruit and vegetables and weed control. There are points for special features and overall impression of the plot. There are also points for being environmentally friendly. Tenants who compost, use mulch, collect rainwater and recycle will score more points.

The judges are a group of councillors, allotment association members and experienced allotment gardeners. The judging takes place in June or July. There is a sparkling awards ceremony in October, hosted by the mayor, which takes place in the council chambers at the Municipal Offices.