MOUNTAINS of fresh fruit and vegetables will be packed into parcels and given to some of Darlington’s most vulnerable people, thanks to kind-hearted volunteers.

Community group High Grow Darlo are devoted to ensuring as many people as possible reap the benefits of a healthy diet.

Those behind the project work tirelessly to provide fresh produce for free, planting vegetables in planters around Darlington and launching regular initiatives to inspire youngsters and the wider community to eat well.

Every year, the group sets itself a challenge and this year’s task will see their committed volunteers provide for those struggling with food poverty.

High Grow Darlo’s aim for 2018 is to produce half a ton of fresh food for foodbanks in the town, which distribute thousands of free meals a week to those in need.

Work has already begun, with the town’s mayor, Cllr Jan Taylor, helping to prepare the ground by digging out the first bed.

She said: “The Half-Ton Challenge is an amazing new project and I am so proud and pleased to support it in Darlington.

“The impact on our foodbanks will be massive - we all know how important it is to eat fresh food.

“This is yet another example of how our community can pull together to help each other and I would ask anyone who feels they can help to get in touch with them."

Caroline Todd, foodbank manager for Kings Church and St Columba, said the initiative would help them as they battle to meet demand, supplying 1,400 meals a week.

She said: “Just to know that we will be able to put fresh produce into everyone’s emergency food parcels without rationing will be a great blessing.

“High Grow Darlo’s help in supplying organically home grown fruit and vegetables on this level will enable us to keep on making up the well balanced bags of food that we distribute.

“We are so thankful for their hard work and support of foodbanks, and are extremely grateful for every donation that we receive. It just shows the heart of a community who want to help those who are less fortunate than others.”

High Grow volunteers are currently drawing up plans to hit their target and believe supplies will begin to flow out from June onwards.

Chair Michael Hall thanked all who have supported the project as he appealed for volunteers to join the team, saying: ": we have been desperately short of volunteers and anyone who would like to help with any of our activities should get in touch with us by e-mail highgrowdarlo1@gmail.com."