RDS announces awards scheme in recognition of allotment gardeners

THE RDS has announced the launch of an awards scheme that recognises the growing interest in allotment gardening.

It will have a total prize fund of €3,000 and strengthen the society’s commitment to promoting bio-diversity in Ireland.

The RDS said, whether it is for reasons of health or the economy, allotment gardening has never been more popular in Ireland.

Allotments provide fresh and healthy food as well as many other benefits to those involved, such as relaxation, enjoyment and recreation.

The RDS said the aim of the awards is to recognise the hard work, dedication and attention to detail being undertaken by those involved in allotment gardening and to promote an area that encourages people to become more aware of rural issues.

The first award recognises the individual gardener and is divided into two categories: experienced and novice gardener. With the aim of promoting excellence in allotment gardening, the winner in each category will receive €500 and an RDS silver medal.

A cheque for €300 awaits the runner-up and the third placed will be presented to a cheque for €200, with each receiving an RDS certificate of merit.

The second award recognises the work of allotment providers and is open to local authorities, allotment societies, community gardening groups and any other individuals who are providing allotments.

A cheque for €1,000 and an RDS Silver Medal will be presented to the winner of this award. It seeks to recognise the work carried out on the overall allotment site as well as the supports provided to the individual growers.

RDS agriculture committee chairman Jim Flanagan said the awards are intended to encourage standards of excellence in allotment gardening.

They also aim to promote bio-diversity, which is vitally important, in that it provides significant economic, environmental, health and cultural benefits to Ireland.

Application via the RDS website: www.rds.ie/agriculture or via email at [e-mail] and by calling the RDS Agriculture Foundation 01 240 7215.

Closing date for entries is July 1. Judging of the allotments will take place over the summer with an awards ceremony in the RDS in the autumn.