Graham Simpson MSP congratulates the Chapelhall Allotments on the funding they have received from the Bags of Help initiative.
Mr Simpson met with members of the Chapelhall Allotments community group, Marion Dawson and Alex McCartney, and Sue Wylie from Greenspace Scotland to discuss the great community benefits created by this local project.
Chapelhall Allotments began in 2010 and is situated in an urban residential setting, on what used to be a derelict play park.
Chapelhall Allotments received £5,000 from Bags of Help to fund a water pipe through the Chapelhall Allotments Association Water Challenge. Funding which the community group has received over time has provided more sheds, poly tunnels, wood chipper and the recently installed water pipe, which cost £7,500.
The MSP said “Talking with Marion, Alex and Sue has provided me with the opportunity to see first-hand the strong community feel that these allotments provide to the local area. The charity is run entirely through volunteers and many members provide their skills such as building or gardening to help improve the allotments. This project highlights the great benefits that local community groups can bring if provided with funding and support. Members of the public who use the allotments are of all ages and abilities. This includes a gentleman with Parkinson’s and pupils from the Jack and Jill group in Bellshill.
“I was particularly fascinated with the poly tunnels which grow fruit and vegetables of all kinds – even a pineapple.
“The fact that some of the work on the allotments was carried out by individuals serving community services should be applauded. Working within this setting would allow individuals to have sense of purpose and provide with a chance to rehabilitate back into the local community.
“I would like to thank Tesco for their funding which has helped the charity establish itself in the local community. Since launching in 2015, Bags of Help has awarded more than £52million to more than 16,000 projects all over the UK. In Scotland, more than 2000 groups have shared in £6million. I wish the Chapelhall Allotments all the very best in the future, and I hope to be invited back to see how they are progressing”.