DIGGING THE DIRT PARSNIP WARS

All's fair in love and war, as John Holloway recounts the friendly rivalry he shares with fellow allotmenteer Joe

- John Holloway

Having an allotment brings a sense of joy and satisfaction. Of course, there's always disappointment when produce fails to grow or hard work goes unrewarded, but being surrounded by like-minded souls means we can share the same emotions knowing we're not alone. It's particularly good as we get on well with our fellow allotmenteers and we're very blessed in that regard.

That's not to say there is no fierce competition to produce the best fruit or vegetables. We all want to grow something that's better than our plot neighbours; the smugness when we can cheerfully say: "Sorry to hear your spuds didn't come up to expectations - we had a particularly excellent crop this year." But there's no malice, it's all done with a smirk and a smile and we revel in the banter that underpins our conversations.

On the allotment we're people of the same ilk as we cheerfully exchange mock insults and laughter.