Everything was coming up roses for these Oxford allotment holders, not to mention the fruit and vegetables they were producing too.

Those tending the plots off Lenthall Road, Rose Hill, and Thomson Terrace, Littlemore, had been named national champions.

Representatives from contest organisers Garden News and Samuel Dobie and Son came to the city to present the trophy in 1987.

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The winning Rose Hill Allotment Association, which boasted 165 members, also scooped a cheque for £250 and £250 worth of Dobie vouchers to spend on seeds and equipment.

Life vice-president Ted Brewster, of Thames View Road, Rose Hill, described their success as “blooming marvellous”.

He said: “It has taken a lot of really hard work for everyone, but it goes to show what you can achieve if you put some effort into it. It’s a great boost to Oxford. We grow everything - flowers, vegetables, strawberries and blackcurrants. It’s a real team effort.”

He is pictured with association members as he receives the silver trophy from Dobie general manager Roger Danbury, left.

The contest was open to all gardening societies in the country and Rose Hill beat 11 other finalists to win the trophy.

The judges, whose decision was unanimous, praised the association for its commitment to the community and for encouraging children to take part.

Oxford City Council works closely with the Oxford and District Federation of Allotment Associations (ODFAA) and the allotment associations who manage the 36 allotment sites.

Each allotment association annually elects its own committee.

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

His Trade and Tourism newsletter is released every Saturday morning. 

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