The Society, independent of the Town Council which manages allotment sites in Hailsham, discusses any concerns at or suggestions for improvements at allotment sites and liaises with the Town Council regularly to ensure that the sites are run as efficiently as possible.
Society also arranges open days, produce shows, competitions and social events for members of the public.
"I'm honoured and delighted to have been asked to attend the Society's AGM," said Mayor Cllr Holbrook. "The Society does a sterling job of promoting and protecting our allotment sites, as well as acting as a voice for plot holders and liaising with the Town Council if and when problems arise."
Having visited the Town Council's three allotment sites at Battle Road, Station Road and Harold Avenue recently to chat to plot holders and members of the Society, Cllr Holbrook has seen for himself how allotments are an asset for the community - and how growing your own fruit and vegetables can be highly sustainable: "It is often overlooked that there are three different allotment sites in Hailsham maintained by the Town Council, and we should celebrate them all as they are a way for people to keep fit and active and grow their own healthy food."
"I speak on behalf of our proud plot tenants and Hailsham Allotment Society members that having an allotment instills a genuine sense of pride in the community. Allotments are not only a brilliant way of keeping active, but also eating more healthily, helping the environment by reducing food miles, escaping from the hustle and bustle of everyday living and of course, generating a sense of community."
"The Town Council is committed to providing allotment plots to all residents who wish to rent one. We recognise the vital role allotment gardening plays in the local community, for people to grow their own selection of fruit and vegetables whilst serving as a highly rewarding pastime in the process."
At present, the Town Council manages 97 plots on three sites: Station Road (13 plots), Battle Road (57 plots) and Harold Avenue (27 plots). Standard plots are 3 or 5 rods in size.
Rental costs are £23.10 per annum for 3-rod size (approx 75m sq) and £39.60 per annum for 5-rod size (approx 125m sq).
A £50 deposit is requested for newly registering plot holders.
Due to a high demand for allotments, there is a waiting list for new plot tenants operating on a first come, first served basis. People on the waiting list will be contacted as soon as plots become available.
Currently, the waiting list is only open to Hailsham town residents. Anyone residing outside the parish boundary should contact their local parish/town council, which may be able to assist with allotment tenancy applications.
To request being added to the allotment rental waiting list, please call 01323 841702 (during office hours) or email enquiries@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.