WE’VE all heard stories of rivalries between prize vegetable growers, but it seems allotment gardeners in Winsford have found a clever way to clear the air once a year.

Saturday, August 19, will see ‘Cabbages’ take on ‘Turnips’ in Over Allotment Association’s second annual ‘Beswick Bowl’ crown green bowling contest at Over Recreation Ground.

The aim is for members to have some fun in an atmosphere of healthy competition, and to get people off their individual plots to socialise at the end of the day over some well-earned food and drinks.  

Over Allotments committee member and head beekeeper, Becky Edwards, said: “It’s all just a little something extra we do at Over Allotments Association to try and make everything even more friendly and inclusive.

Northwich Guardian: (L to R) Abbie Davies; joint 'Best Plot' winners 2023, Mary Simpson and Fran Johnson; Winsford town mayor, Ernie Welch(L to R) Abbie Davies; joint 'Best Plot' winners 2023, Mary Simpson and Fran Johnson; Winsford town mayor, Ernie Welch (Image: Becky Edwards)

“It’s just a nice thing to do as a community.”

“I can’t remember whether I was a Cabbage or a Turnip last year, but I can remember whichever I was, we won.

“We’ll do our bowling session, then we’ll head off back over to the allotments and have some food and drink, which will be lovely.”

Over Allotment Association turns 100 years old in 2024, and preparations are already underway for a year of special celebrations and events.

Sunday, August 27, also sees their annual vegetable competition and barbeque return, with prizes presented by Winsford town mayor, Ernie Welch.

"The mayor presented the trophies at the prize giving on our annual open day last month, and he'll be returning for our veg contest", Becky added.  

“It’s not too serious. It’s just another warm, welcoming, fun day for the whole family.

“I need to up my game a bit though. I entered some frozen peas last year, which maybe wasn't the very best idea, looking back.”

“It’s such an exciting hobby. I get quite giddy over it.”