The BDAC is sad to hear that Derek passed away on Monday 5th September after a short illness.
Never a person to seek the limelight, Derek quietly and efficiently contributed much to the Allotment world.
For many years he was one of the top growers in Birmingham winning trophies in our Annual Show. So, we were excited when in late 2016 he took over the role of BDAC Show Secretary, becoming a member of our Executive.
As Show Secretary he had a vision of a larger and more inclusive show. He took the Show indoors to the MAC where the wider public could see the fabulous displays. Public attendances greatly improved. His work would have continued had Covid not arrived. He was determined that the Show should continue. He travelled across Birmingham to find a suitable new venue for a Covid safe Show. Bordesley Green was the only venue suitable, they welcomed us in 2021. This year he introduced the Novices Classes wanting to encourage plot holders new to exhibiting to “have a go”. Sadly, he was not there in person to see all the wonderful novice entries but did get to see photos of the staging.
Derek was also a member of the BDAC Working Party. His contribution towards the re-drafting of the Draft Management Agreement cannot be understated. He made many suggestions of changes, being a major contributor to the debate. Also, he took on the responsibility of typing up any redrafts and also the final draft that went to the Council.
He represented the BDAC at West Midlands Area Regional meetings of the National Allotments and was only too happy to promote Allotments and the BDAC together with his wife, Chris and myself at various events across the City.
He will be greatly missed by all those who knew him.
Our thoughts and condolences are with his family.
Barbara Smith
Secretary
BDAC
