SAGS conference and AGM
Wednesday, July 16th, 2008The SAGS conference was a great success this year. The morning session was chaired by Aileen Campbell MSP who gave a report from the Scottish Parliament which inspired us to hope that the social, health and economic benefits of allotments are finally gaining recognition among our rulers. The highlight of the morning was a talk by Dr Richard Wiltshire who gave a thought provoking account of the way that allotments and community gardens might meet social goals, such as helping with demographic change.
The first event after lunch was the presentation to our retiring Vice President Gilbert Clark MBE in recognition of his many years of service to the allotment community in Scotland. We then heard reports from groups around the country involved in setting up - or in some cases trying hard to set up in spite of local authority antagonism - new allotment sites around the country. We then separated into workshop groups depending on our particular interests, and had fascinating discussions of issues surrounding allotment management.
 Aileen Campbell presents Gilbert Clark with his award for long service. Mandy Fooks and Peter Wright look on. Picture taken by Jennifer Cook. |
 Aileen Campbell MSP gives her report from parliament |