A Petersfield resident has been recognised for his efforts in maintaining a local allotment.

At the recent AGM of the Sheet & Tilmore Allotment Association, David Petche received a Recognition Award from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) for working his allotment at Tilmore for 50 years.

He started his allotment when he moved to town with his family in the early 1970s.

Steve Jones, from the association’s committee, said: “In retirement David has been able to devote more time to his plot as well as being involved in environmental projects locally and helping unemployed youngsters find employment. 

“He has also been a governor of The Petersfield School and a town councillor. He now spends as much time as possible on his allotment.”

David was also instrumental in helping set up the Adhurst Estate Allotments. It spans more than 12 acres and features individual growing plots, a community orchard and the Petersfield Community Garden.