A DISUSED village allotment is being taken over by children.

Sure Start East Cleveland is part of the Government's drive to improve opportunities for parents and youngsters aged under four living in deprived areas.

Now the Loftus group is asking Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council for permission to take over the disused allotment at nearby Liverton Mines for the benefit of the children.

Sure Start manager Julie Connor said children, helped by parents, will be able to grow fruit, vegetables and flowers.

There are also plans for a grassed area where the children can play.

Loftus Development Trust, which is working in partnership with Sure Start to develop the allotment, is also improving the water services