The new buildings at the front are nearing completion.

They are taller than anything else along this stretch of Drayton Road, and taller than their near neighbours, on Hermitage Road, to the rear.

The trees do screen them from the Ock Valley Walk.

This year the traditional St George’s Parade was led by a dragon,

and by a Scottish Pipe Band.

Hundreds of scouts, cubs, guides and brownies were led to a short church service.

Then they paraded back to the Market Place where, after some posturing, the dragon was slayed.

The 2009 Market Place Events were kicked off by the Abbey Brass performing from 11 to 1.

Also to be seen today…

The Mayor was there collecting sponsors for his next charity event, a Thameside Trek, on Saturday 2 May from 9:00 until 19:00, up river from Abingdon.

Abingdon Air and Country Show is on Sunday the 3rd of May, and they had a stall.

There was a stall for the Rotary Vespers Dragon Boat races on Sunday 10th May.

Where in Abingdon is This?

Once, I am told by John, who sent the pictures, all the land was taken up, but now, in many places, “only the persistent daffodils are a reminder of its former use.”

The lane leads to the West End Allotments, the other side of the A34 off the Marcham Road.

Allotments have recently become popular again. This was happening before the recession, so it is not just austerity.

Allotments are run by allotment associations on land leased from the Town Council. A few years ago the Drayton Road Allotments (also in Abingdon) were partly taken out of use, and fenced off because not enough plots were being used. Alternative uses were sought. But this year the Town Council is taking down the fences, and helping to clear the land since there is a growing waiting list there.

Finally, John Says “there’s my rough and ready half plot but with grandchildren’s help there are peas and potatoes already sewn!“