Liz Dare

My husband, Mervyn Dare, has been working his allotment near the Irish Club for the last 5 years. It all started when Ron, our neighbour, shared some onions from his allotment. The onions made an appetising sandwich with some cheese and Mervyn got interested in the idea of working his own allotment when he found that the plot next to Ron’s was available. His application succeeded and work began on Plot 25. Mervyn had retired early from psychiatric nursing because of a slipped disc however working on the allotment has strengthened his back. He has grown many different vegetables: leeks, carrots, beetroot, potatoes, parsnips, turnips, courgettes and marrows. These we have shared with friends and neighbours.
Specialities
Mervyn has had success with Mauritian specialities Patissons, also known as pattipan squash and grows Brede Malbar, a green vegetable a bit like spinach. These have made our Mauritian cuisine most enjoyable and we have also been given other vegetables in exchange for our specialities.
Our granddaughter Amy (aged 2) has learned about the vegetables, saw where carrots came from, helped pick the runner beans and enjoys a ride home in the wheelbarrow.
More people are interested in allotments since the credit crunch began so you there is now a waiting list of about 6 months. Contact the Parish Clerk, Gillian Patschinsky on 01727 821314 if you would like to apply.