GREEN-FINGERED children, couples and young families are helping a historic allotment to thrive.

A new generation of keen gardeners has left the Hummersknott Allotments Association confident that the future of the site is in safe hands.

Speaking after judges recognised individual allotment holders for their hard work on site and shortly before the association threw open the allotments for its annual open day event, secretary Derek Lindsay said: “When we started our plots competitions and open days 14 years ago, it was my ambition to encourage interest in allotment gardening throughout the local community and attract new members.

“The activity was becoming more attractive generally but by opening up our site to visitors, raising gardening standards and improving or providing communal facilities, we now have a local amenity that brings pleasure to many and is a source of pride for those managing and caring for the allotments.

“All plots are let and we have a waiting list which ensures succession when tenants leave.

“I am encouraged for the future of the association to see more young people, including couples with young children, growing their own food.”

For more information about the allotments, visit knottyplots.uk