A Colne haven to grow gardening skills (From Lancashire Telegraph)

A Colne haven to grow gardening skills

9:24am Tuesday 23rd June 2009 in

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A ONCE derelict site in Colne is being transformed into a green haven by a group of volunteers.

Since work began 10 months ago at Basil Street Community Allotment, the site has been developed to boast seating, fencing and a sheltered area.

Local schoolchildren are growing radishes, broad beans, garlic, courgettes and lettuce at the allotment.

The scheme has been co-ordinated by Colne Neighbourhood Management Team and Lancashire Wildlife Trust.

It has been transformed with the help of local and trust volunteers as well as Pendle Council’s Environmental Action Group (PEAG).

And a Friends of Basil Street Community Allotments group has also been set up.

The allotment has proved a hit with local residents who do not have their own back gardens.

Sue Coombes, 24, was keen for her two-year-old son Connor to learn about how food is grown.

She said: “I enjoy the fresh air, the conversation and some hard labour!

“I would love to have a garden of my own, but I’ve just got a yard. I wanted Connor to see what we’re doing gardening.”

Members of PEAG have constructed a decking area and plan to erect a shelter which can double as an outdoor classroom.

Funding has come from Target: Wellbeing and NHS East Lancashire as well as Colne Neighbourhood Management Team.

The neighbouring Waterside Youth Club is hoping to set up a gardening club with members helping to cook the food they grow.

Public gardening sessions take place every Thursday from 1pm to 3pm.