Up to 80 new allotment plots could be up for grabs in Swinton as negotiations are underway to re-open disused growing sites.
The chairman of award-winning Tindall Street Allotments in Peel Green, Don Booth, is in discussions with Salford City Council to open up two former allotment sites at Beechfield and Mossfield Road in Swinton.
Two years ago Don was instrumental in reopening 24 allotments in Addison Road, Irlam which had remained fallow for the last 30 years and each was quickly snapped up by local gardeners.
Such is the popularity of allotments in Salford over 600 people are on waiting lists from keen gardeners without growing space of their own.
SalfordOnline.com has filmed with green-fingered allotment holders in Salford who host everything from chickens to bees at their community gardens.
Watch: A Taste of Honey in Winton
Watch: The Pecking Order at Tindall Street Allotments
The news came as Don Booth celebrated yet another award which recognises his being the driving force behind the popularity of allotments in Salford for the past 47 years.
Don was presented with the Chairmans Award from the North West Counties Allotment Society for his work in promoting the use of allotments in Salford.
He told us of his delight at receiving the award: “I have worked hard over the years to encourage people to use allotments.
It promotes healthy eating, and keeps you fit: I tell people that you don’t need to go the gym, get an allotment instead!
“At the Tindall Street allotments over the years we have helped people from the probation services, school groups, health improvement services, Incredible Edible Salford and just recently people from the Macmillan Cancer Trust, so it has been really worthwhile.”
In September 2011 Don was presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and a certificate signed by Her Majesty the Queen.
The Tindall Street group was also offered an invitation for representatives to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in the summer of that year.
Not content to rest on his laurels Don is now in negotiations with Salford City Council – so get growing!
