Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Allotments set to grow thanks to cash boost
Supermarketsupport
Members of Chapelhall allotments have got their green fingers on a welcome four-figure sum.
They have received £5000 from the “bags of help” scheme run by supermarket giants Tesco – which will be used to fund a water pipe.
It came about as a result of the recent Chapelhall allotments association water challenge.
Members are delighted by the cash boost for the village facility, established in 2010 on land which used to house a playpark.
Allotments chairman Alex McCartney and treasurer Marion Dawson welcomed Graham Simpson MSP, to the allotments to celebrate thes “incredibly helpful” donation.
They also discussed the project’s community benefits with Sue Wylie from Greenspace Scotland.
Central Scotland member Mr Simpson said: “Talking with Marion, Alex and Sue has provided me with the opportunity to see, first-hand, the strong community feel of these allotments.
“The charity is run entirely through volunteers and many members provide their skills, such as building or gardening, to help improve the allotments.
“I was particularly fascinated with the poly tunnels which grow fruit and vegetables of all kinds – even a pineapple!
“Members of the public who use the allotments are of all ages and abilities, and this project highlights the great benefits that community groups can bring, if provided with funding and support.
“I’d like to thank Tesco for the funding and wish Chapelhall allotments all the very best.”
He added: “The fact that some of the work on the allotments was carried out by individuals serving community orders should be applauded.
“Working within this setting would provide a sense of purpose and a chance to rehabilitate back into the local community.”