First Birthday Celebrations at Cobh Community Allotments

The weather did not disappoint on July 6th as members of Cobh Community Allotments came together to celebrate their first year in operation. The festivities began at 1pm as plot holders, their families and friends, gathered at the allotment site for a day of food, fun and music.  A big thank you goes to *Lawrence Meenehan* who offered his services as head chef for the day. Lawrence prepared a fabulous *BBQ* meal and ensured there was plenty of food for everyone to enjoy. Another thank you to *local musicians, Barry, Shane, Jamie and friends,* who took time out of their busy schedules playing to a crowd of almost sixty people throughout the day. And again, additional thanks to our* face painters*, who,* *in colourful costumes, entertained the kids ensuring they were not left out of the fun and activities.

Clare McCarthy shared her *flower arranging* expertise by giving a demonstration, whilst Trish Goggin organised a *plant sale* with plants donated by plot holders. A raffle was held, and as the good weather this year produced a bumper crop at the allotment, the main prize was a beautiful hamper composed of *organic fruit and vegetables* gathered from the various plots.

Sylvia Matthews and Tara Clifford set up a stall offering samples of *probiotic drinks* and they also provided cultures and information for everyone on how to make their own. In keeping with the allotment´s ethos of sustainable living, thanks to Tim Mathews, the blender used in making the smoothies was powered by *Solar Electricity*: NOT something you see every day but certainly something to aspire to!

Cobh Community Allotments has come a long way since its inception and 2013 has seen several projects completed, such as the *communal polytunnel*. There are also several other projects underway and at the moment great work is being carried out on the *communal sensory garden, *which will not only benefit the allotment holders, but also benefit the wider community.

Thank you to all the neighbours and friends who turned out on the day to help us celebrate. Also, thanks to many others who donated their time, services, hard work and commitment. The Cobh Family Resource Centre, The Roaring Donkey, Crew Cuts Barbers, the allotment committee, and of course all the plot holders. We are looking forward to another successful year ahead. And, indeed, it is not too late in the season to start planting as many vegetables are perfect for the cooler months of late summer and autumn. There are still plots available to rent for as little as €1 per week. If anyone would like further information on leasing their own plot please contact Aislinn at the Cobh Family Resource Centre *021-4908174*.