Sarah
Hawkins Genealogy Site
Newspaper
Articles
The Western Daily Press and Bristol Mirror Monday 14 Aug 1939
Page 10 Column 6
THE CRIME OF WEEDS
Sir, - I have seen quite a lot of Bristol during a week's visit; much to praise and a little to condemn.
One condemnation: Weeds. While walking round Brislington I saw some allotments. Never have I seen more weeds to the square foot. Chock full is indeed a mild description. Thistles with plush-like seed-pods, ready to be scattered into all the gardens around, to rise, phoenix-like, next spring to cause vexation (and perhaps some language) to the owners of adjoining house gardens.
I do not know who is to blame for this state of affairs. Some will say the allotment holders (weed croppers) for allowing it. But what of the city council's responsibility? Bristol is a county, and therefore possessed of all the powers of a county council to deal with this menacing nuisance. In my town, which is much smaller, action can only be taken by the county council, but we are looking after foul land which jeopardises the food-growing possibilities of adjoining land.
At a time like this, when every effort is being made to produce more food, it seems deplorable that even this small allotment area should be allowed to grow unprofitable weeds. Clean land is a beautiful sight, and it tells the story of good husbandry, but foul land is an eyesore. Because of this I write in the hope that it will come under the eyes of those responsible. My gardening soul has been revolted.
FRANK OATEN
(J.P. and Councillor, M.J.I.)
From Somewhere in the Garden of England.
<NOTES: Frank OATEN son of Henry Charles OATEN and Sarah Ann HALFYARD, married Ellen Gertrude MOCKRIDGE>