CHINNOR ALLOTMENT & GARDEN
ASSOCIATION ESTABLISHED 1926
Minutes Committee Meeting 20th May 2026
Present; Maureen Dyroff, Treasurer, Jackie Gunn, Plot Letter, Margaret Lambert, Secretary
Chris McGuire has tendered his resignation both as Chair and from the committee. (Copy of letter attached). His resignation was accepted with deep regret. He has been a hardworking and conscientious Chair, working hard to ensure that CAGA meet all necessary fire and health and safety standards. This includes developing a robust system of training and recording of plot holders using CAGA equipment. The committee will write to CM expressing their thanks. His vast knowledge of horticultural and environmental issues is exceptional he has been a great asset. ML to write letter of thanks.
No matters arising not on agenda.
Without a chair we will have to operate a rolling chair. ML to chair today’s meeting.
His resignation leaves the Committee in a very difficult position with only three Committee members. In order to continue the day to day managing the basics of running CAGA we URGENTLY need more help. We certainly cannot do any of the social events we were planning to do this year including plot judging and a summer barbecue. We need more committee members but any help for example running the shop would be gratefully accepted. Please contact one of the committee members or email. secretary@caga.org.uk or cagacommittee2025@gmail.com
In addition, we are concerned about the governance of CAGA with such a small Committee. Especially if and when we have to make significant decisions.
Due to ongoing problems getting signatories transferred we are still waiting £2867.05 to be transferred from the 95 day account to current account to pay for the growing Hub refit and cannot transfer grant money to the correct account.
Balances as of 20th May Current account £4542.54 (includes £2700 from plot deposits a/c), Plot deposit account £156.87, 95 day account £11960.26. There are some outstanding amounts for Committee members who have paid for items whilst awaiting bank transfers.
In view of the problems with the bank MD proposed closing the 95day account and moving the money to the current account and review the situation in three months. This was seconded by JG all voted in favour. The money from CPC for the defibrillator has arrived so this can now be purchased. Our subscription with NAS has been renewed. The Committee believe we’ve had value for money, an increase discount on Kings seeds, advice and support of our regional reps. Including Jim More chairing our AGM. We just had to pay his travel expenses. It does however raise the issue of GDPR as NAS require the names and contact information for all plot holders. They only access the data if there is a personal insurance claim. We cannot belong without submitting the data. We will include this information in our GDPR statement for new plot holders. If any existing member wishes to discuss this or wishes their information to be removed, please contact Margaret Lambert email Secretary@caga.org. GDPR, including NAS, Statement to be included in all CAGA correspondence.it was agreed that the plot letter will be the data controller for CAGA.
The shop was very quiet. We have a good range of products at very competitive prices. Please support us. Let us know if there are items you would like us to stock. I had a quick look in a Garden centre and the fertilisers I looked at were more than double our price.
JG to undertake plot walk mid to late June. To meet with JH to arrange.
A list of Jobs will be posted int the Growing Hub window. Plot holders are requested to do these tasks outside of official work parties. Tasks including cutting grass, keeping the stinging nettles by the gate cut back and the sycamore by the post box. The ivy needs removing from the garages and from the gable ends of the houses on Duck Square. The tree by the gate to Van Dieman’s needs to be cut back. Items to be listed in the newsletter.
Next working parties – Saturday 13th June and Thursday 25th June. Ask JH to make drinks for volunteers.
Weekend of 6th /7th of June is Chinnor open Gardens. Site will be kept open both days.
FOE Green Fayre on 7th June, there will be a stall offering information and advice and plants for sale. If you have any surplus plants, please drop them off at Village Hall before 10am on the 7th or contact a committee member. No other events due to shortage of committee members.
Money from CPC for defibrillator has arrived. It can now be purchased. It will be installed on plot 30F, central to site. We will need volunteers to help us.
Next Meeting date; Tuesday 30th June 2.30pm in the Growing Hub Note change to date and time on this occasion.