National Allotment Society AGM 2026 Celebrates Growth, Research and the Future of Allotments

Members from across the country gathered in Leamington Spa for the National Allotment Society's 2026 Annual General Meeting, a day filled with inspiring speakers, important discussions, and a shared commitment to protecting and promoting allotments for future generations.

Huw Richards Inspires Members with a Modern-Day Dig for Victory

The first keynote speaker of the day was organic gardener, author and YouTuber Huw Richards

Huw's presentation,
The Power of an Allotment Plot: A Modern-Day Dig for Victory, demonstrated
 just how productive even a relatively small allotment can be. Drawing on his own 125-square-metre plot, Huw explained how spending around six hours a week growing food has enabled him to produce enough fruit and vegetables to provide 7,000 portions towards the recommended five-a-day – enough to feed a family of four for a year.

Packed with practical advice and delivered with his trademark humour, Huw encouraged members to think creatively about growing spaces, composting, and crop selection. His message was clear: allotments remain one of the most powerful tools we have for improving health, wellbeing and food security.

Launching the First National Allotment Survey in 30 Years

One of the most significant announcements of the day was the launch of the Society's nationwide survey of local authorities.

The survey, the first comprehensive review of allotment provision since 1996, will gather data from more than 9,000 councils to assess allotment numbers, waiting lists, demand, and how councils are meeting their legal duties to provide allotments. The findings will help build the strongest evidence base in decades to support future planning, policy, and allotment protection.

Alongside this work, members heard how findings from the National Allotments Week wellbeing survey are already helping inform discussions with Defra and other stakeholders.

Governance and Looking Ahead

The AGM also saw updates from the newly formed Compliance Committee, which has replaced the former Governance Committee. Its work over the past year has focused on strengthening governance, improving transparency, and supporting effective decision-making across the Society.

Members voted on constitutional matters, elected regional representatives and committee members, and approved the Society's annual accounts, which showed another strong financial performance.

The meeting also marked the formal appointment of
John Irwin as President
of the National Allotment Society. Outgoing Interim President Jeff Barber reflected positively on the Society's development and thanked members and volunteers for their ongoing commitment.

Celebrating Service and Achievement

The AGM provided an opportunity to recognise the outstanding contribution of volunteers across the allotment movement.

John McNabb received an Honorary Life Award for his exceptional service to the West Midlands Region, while Colin Bedford was posthumously awarded the Geoff Stokes Memorial Award in recognition of his dedication to supporting allotment sites and self-management across the region.

Andrew Tokely Shares Seed-Growing Expertise

The afternoon session featured an illustrated talk from Andrew Tokely,
Horticultural Director at Kings Seeds.

Drawing on more than 45 years of horticultural experience, Andrew explored how choosing the right varieties can help gardeners overcome common growing challenges. He highlighted new and established varieties offering improved disease resistance, flavour and garden performance, before answering questions from members. His practical advice and extensive knowledge proved a fitting conclusion to an informative and engaging day.

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