GREEN-FINGERED youngsters hope a newly launched gardening club will nurture new friendships between their school and the surrounding community.

The children from Red Hall Primary School, in Headingley Crescent, Darlington, want to create an area where they can grow their own fruit and vegetables and enjoy mixing with parents and people living on the nearby housing estate.

The food grown in the garden will be used to promote healthy eating in the school and also offer the opportunity for children to learn where vegetables come from.

Headteacher Julie Davidson said the after school club will give the children a sense of achievement.

She said: “There is nothing better than tasting vegetables you have grown in your own garden. The children are really excited about it.

“It is also a wonderful opportunity for our school to get more involved in the community. We would love parents to come along and help us. It will be something fun for everyone to be involved with.’’

Anyone interested in helping the school with its new venture can contact them on 01325-254770.