[fatcat1955]

i was in the same situation but i have had major sucess with straw

Remember that straw will rob nitrogen from your soil whilst rotting down. Once fully rotted it will put it back. To be on the safe side , throw some chicken manure pellets in with the straw.

Edited to correct quote format.

[Kirpi]

Straw won't rob nitrogen from your soil if it is strewn on top of your soil and rotting down there as a mulch. It is only when it is dug in that it uses a small amount of existing nitrogen to break down. If you don't dig, you'll be fine.

[The Golden Heap]

I would opt for a geotextile membrane, I have tried a few different things this year, they exclude light but allow moisture to pass etc so it doesnt dry out too much.  The previous allotmenteer of my plot carpeted, big mistake all the weeds intwinned with the carpet!

[mrswashi]

Thank you all for your sound advice, it's very much appreciated.
Only 18 days till I get my allotment. Can't wait!
Manda

[Moonshine132435]

Thanks for your tip Goosegirl, BTW. I put out my spring onions this weekend and marked the end of the rows with lolly sticks and green twine; as long as the sticks stay in the ground I'll have no trouble seeing which are weeds and which are onion shoots.