There is a new book on the history of the allotment movement. Attached is an invitation to the book launch at the Big Green Bookshop in Wood Green and some info on the book.
Growing Space can be ordered from any bookshop or internet outlet, or - post free - from Five Leaves bookshop, by phone (0115 8373097) or via bookshop@fiveleaves.co.uk.
Detail: There are currently over 300,000 allotment plots in the UK, with roughly 100,000 people on waiting lists. Allotments are popular, and under threat. This accessible social history book looks at how changing economic, political and cultural conditions have affected the demand for plots. A thorough study debunks the myth that the provision of allotments was solely a benign activity for the poor, but a highly politicised history which reflects national and local policies on land use with a constant struggle to hold onto these city fields and country gardens. The book is illustrated throughout.
Lesley Acton is a conservation and cultural heritage consultant who normally writes on Conservation. Her previous books include The Repair of Pottery and Porcelain and Practical Ceramic Conservation. She has written on allotments for the Institute of Archaeology, and the Oxford Food Symposium Proceedings (Prospect Books). She is in contact with allotmenteers nationwide.
Lesley Acton runs the popular website www.allotmentresources.org