Blooming great day for allotment holders
By Mary Dennehy
TALLAGHT’S urban farmers were out in force last Saturday when the Friarstown Allotments in Bohernabreena held its second annual open day.
The South Dublin Allotment Association in partnership with South Dublin County Council hosted the blooming great day for allotment holders and members of the public to celebrate the growth of the facility.
With 300 plots, Friarstown is the largest of South Dublin County Council’s allotments – with the local authority also planting allotments in Corkagh Park in Clondalkin, Tymon Park in Tallaght and Mill Lane in Palmerstown.
According to Patricia Murphy, of the council’s environment department, there’s a great community spirit in the allotments, with everybody supporting each other and lending a helping hand when needed.
On Saturday, a number of competitions were held including best veg, fruit, jam and allotments.
The allotments were divided into three categories, small, medium and large.
Prizes in the small category went to Anna Moran (1st), Gerard Friary (2nd) and Nevan Griffith (3rd) while in the medium category, winners included Tracey Boylen (1st) Sheila Gaskin (2nd), Columba Conway (3rd) and Jimmy Walker (4th).
Norman Miller came first in the large category while John Treacy came second.
County Mayor Paul Gogarty officially opened the event, which showcased not only the home grown produce available but also the new friendships that have set root in the allotments.
