Following the instructions around movement and gatherings from the Prime Minister on 23 March 2020, and consultation with the National Allotment Society and the Parish Council we can offer the following advice.

It is still permitted to visit your plot, ideally on your own to take daily exercise. It is vitally important that you comply with all the government advice about social distancing and hygiene, particularly those over 70, those with underlying illness or pregnant women.

The following key precautionary measures should be noted;

1. Any plot-holder who is self-isolating because a household member is ill with coronavirus should not visit the site.
2. It is essential that no un-authorised people are allowed onto the plots for the duration of this emergency.
3. Be stringent about “Social Distancing” with each other at 2 metres minimum.
4. Do not share tools.
5. Do not wash your hands in water butts.
6. The communal shed and its contents are off limits
7. If you use the water taps use hand sanitiser first.
8. If you catch coronavirus please inform the Hempcroft Allotment Association Committee so that actions to quarantine your plot area can be considered.

We are living through a crisis, the likes of which none of us has experienced before, not since war time has the community spirit that exists on allotment sites been more important.  Please remember to look out for one another during these very difficult times.

Edward Metcalfe Chairman, Hempcroft Allotment Association
(edmetcalfe@yahoo.co.uk)