Can all members read this blog that enter or leave the site using the bottom gate padlock (Old Lane side). As you are all aware we have had to put this padlock on the gate as the other lock was vandalised & had to be grinded off. Can we please make sure that the shackle or shank (this is the u shaped bar that loops round from, and back into the padlock body is completely pressed down before turning your key to secure the lock. If you don’t do this the levers move across & the lock then isn’t secure.
When this happens you wont be able to turn your key in the keyway so the locking mechanism becomes stuck. If this happens don’t force your key to turn, take it out & look into the lock where the shackle goes back into the lock body. you will see a lever this needs pushing in (with something thin, pen or thin twig so the key will then turn again, Then you can start the locking process again using the above techniques. If the padlock is locked as above in the first paragraph the lever problem will not happen. I know this isn’t ideal for members at the moment but the fear is we change the lock to one same as the other gate it will be vandalised again meaning £70 for a new padlock. I will put this information down at the bottom gate on the notice board.
Blog created by Mark Burton (Allotment Secretary) For & on behaldf of Old Lane Allotments Association
