Finance Minister pays a visit to local businesswoman

Grainne Phillips, 31, who operates ‘The Little Green Allotments’ on her family’s land, was more than happy to show Mr Wilson around her business last Thursday.

She explained: “I am very passionate that The Little Green Allotments is not just a growing space, not just an allotment so as to grow your own, but somewhere to have bags of fun both inside and outside of the allotment.”

Grainne added: “Mr Wilson’s visit was a great honour. It was fantastic to know that the Finance Minister for Northern Ireland was so interested and enthused by my business. It was great to know that local government felt that my business was something unique and worth encouraging.

“His comments on my project blew me away and it was one of the best moments of my life meeting him as he filled me with so much encouragement and determination,” said Grainne. “Mr Wilson also was able to share some of his pearls of wisdom which were greatly appreciated. He was delighted to accept my request to dedicate a special handmade bench with rambling roses either side in his honour.”

The businesswoman said: “I am fortunate that the land has been in the family for over 100 years, been immaculately preserved, is 100% organic and never had pesticides or chemicals used on it so that is why I was inspired to create The Little Green Allotments - to share such a beautiful space to grow your own as well as help and encourage everyone to get back to nature and have an appreciation for the countryside and everything it has to offer.”

Grainne has also launched The Little Green Market - a farmers and craft market where local business people will be selling all their handcrafted goods and produce. Grainne didn’t hesitate in inviting the Minister along to the market taking place on October 22 at 7pm.

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