NINETY years of gardening history will be celebrated next week at some of the finest community plots in the region.

The award-winning Over Allotments were founded four score and ten years ago at Moss Bank, after the former Winsford Urban District Council purchased a field from local man, William Stubbs.

And on the eve of birthday celebrations, a photograph of the man who started it all has come to light.

“It’s good to be able to put a face to a name,” said John Malam, chair of Over Allotments Association. “Without him, there would probably be no allotments at Moss Bank."

The plots have been lovingly cultivated by hundreds of community gardeners ever since, and enjoyed by thousands who have visited the annual open days over the years.

This year’s event between 10am-4pm on Saturday, July 19 will be an extra special occasion – with Winsford Town Council giving away 90 garden trees.

“visitors will be able to explore the allotments, which are among the best in West Cheshire,” added John.

“They’ll also see a vintage Cheshire fire engine, a beekeeping stall with honey from the allotment hives, scarecrows made by local primary schools, knot tying from the International Guild of Knot Tyers, and cookery demos from Winsford Incredible Edibles.”

Garden trees are not the only giveaways at this year’s event, as 100 lucky visitors will be able to pick up a free bag of veg to take home.

Meanwhile, one lucky plot-holder will be awarded the coveted Dempster Challenge Cup for Best Allotment – the oldest community award in Winsford, handed out annually since 1926.

“The judges have a hard task to judge the 60 plots,” said John, “and no one knows until Open Day who the winner is.”