Through the Lens at the GREAT RHYNE GARDEN

As a busy & thriving allotment this land supported the practical and hobby needs for many families of the three estates on the South side of Weston super Mare.   During the late 1980's vandalism and other anti social acts made it increasingly difficult for all but the most dedicated to continue so the area gradually became derelict and overgrown. 

A recent venture from the local Allotments Association puts it back on the map as a place of interest not only for gardeners but also for conservationists and all those with an interest in the little creatures!  And it really can be fun!  So, at the request of one or two allotment holders, Simplido Photography took the camera along for a couple of visits to see what goes on:

On the first occasion I met Nigel who made one or two introductions, showed me where the barbecue was happening (evidently there can be food and beer at these places as well as work), and later showed me around.

Through the Cornflowers - these guys clearly know how to enjoy the work.

Interestingly, there seemed to be just as many flowers being grown for pleasure as fruit & veg for food.

In addition to the individual allotments there is a large area which is being cultivated as a community garden. And it is not all about pleasure; education, community interaction, and provision for the local Healthy Living Centre all play a part.  

Overall it is an initiative which has been assisted by established organisations and is now becoming established in its own right.

At my most recent visit Matt from Avon Wildlife Trust was on hand to help volunteers with the work of finishing the greenhouse.

This walls of this marvelous little greenhouse are built entirely from plastic bottles, cut and drilled to fit together, making such an ingenious work of recycling.

There are plenty of delightful little cornflowers being grown, providing not only colour to the garden but interest for bees, butterflies, and various other insects.  These were also used in the bouquet presented at the Mayors visit at the FACE Fun Day (see earlier post).

The native vegetation is supported around the edges and the rhyne itself is an asset, providing habitat for our natural creatures too.