The Parish Council is delighted to support this initiative being led by allotment holders within the village. The intent is to encourage and promote locally grown produce, sustainability and the mental health benefits of the great outdoors by transforming our shared spaces into thriving edible landscapes. From organic vegetables, herbs and edible flowers in our public areas, to community-led input on growing and cooking, the aim is to make locally grown food fun, accessible, and inclusive.

By way of a starting point, the bed at the bus stop island has been planted up as an 'edible attraction' to raise awareness and interest. Rosemary, rhubarb, tomatoes, nasturtiums, strawberries and calendula all feature. Over time, the ambition is to create similar spaces in planters around the village which can not only be aesthetically pleasing and educational but also offer free access to fresh, seasonal produce.

As with all such initiatives, volunteer support is crucial so anyone with a passion for promoting the health and community benefits of fresh grown herbs and vegetables should contact Richard English at

copdockandwashbrookallotments@gmail.com

The Council is grateful to Bypass Nurseries who have donated all of the plants free of charge, making it another great community effort all round.