‘Potty’ ladies bring fun to Cannock Probus Club
An understatement to say, a ‘fun’ afternoon was created by two ‘potty’ ladies Elaine and Julia, from Derby. This enthusiastic duo brought their quirky fun, to follow a delicious meal at Cannock & District Ladies Probus Club.
Introduction was a light-hearted Quiz. Each letter of PLOTTERS gave a clue to the answers; Plotters / Loofah / Onions / Takeaways / Tomatoes / Erection / Radishes and Sunday.
This was a unique way to share of themselves and what they are about; two allotment amateurs, whose plots are next to each other on a site 109 years old. Included in ‘centenary’ celebrations, the local radio led a change in Elaine's journey, by inviting her to do ‘a slot’ but something different to the normal gardening programmes. Initially rejecting this, she relented with conditions of taking (Little Plotter) Julia, on board but also the Radio Derby programme is live from the allotment each Sunday morning – hail, rain or snow! Their names, such as ‘Chuckle Sisters’ became varied and cheekier, hence the name Potty Plotters grew.
Elaine (Big Plotter) whose Dad had seven kids to feed, was always involved with their allotment growing up. Her sister had a plot in Derby, which Elaine took over before moving to the Ashbourne Road site where, she and Julia spend their time teaching allotment amateurs and aspiring gardeners, the basics. They say, “having a laugh while doing so, is compulsory” and Julia says, having plots next door, they were put together because we are a bit naughty, which may be true because there’s actually a sign saying ‘Naughty Corner!’
These larger-than-life personalities with a loyal Radio following and a podcast, have lots of growing advice and recipes. Their enthusiasm is evident while encouraging other allotmenteers and want them to have fun. Advice includes repurposing, from old bras to an old oil drum or takeaway containers for sowing seeds - Nothing goes to waste.
They’re presently competing with Yorkshire and The Rhubard Triangle needs to be concerned of its reputation while these ladies establish The Loofah Line. A product that Monty Don is unable to grow, is making them proud as theirs become bigger each year ! Grown like a cucumber, it can be used in the bathroom or as maracas when the seeds are ripe or a kitchen scourer before putting onto the compost heap so, its sustainable, as opposed to plastic. Elaine met a ‘Champion’ Loofah grower who had a Big One, at four and half foot, his was a whopper. So, you can garner what tickles these ladies - happy to share free Loofah seeds; to join the Midland Loofah Line, email: naughtycorner@thepottyplotters.uk
Retired or semi-retired, professional or business ladies meet on the first Thursday each month at Chase Golf Club at 12 noon, to share meal, fellowship and speakers with outings and other activities. New members are welcome, annual membership is £16 and two course lunch £23. Further information contact Membership Secretary, Barbara on 07801 370935 or Chairman Chris 01543 879 324.
