YOUNGSTERS and their parents helped sow the first seeds yesterday at the launch of an organic allotment.

The first vegetable seeds were planted in a huge polytunnel at the new community allotment site in Liverton Mines, east Cleveland.

Environmental regeneration charity Groundwork South Tees and Sure Start are encouraging children and parents in the area to try growing their own organic vegetables.

Planting the first seeds during the Easter period represents the start of a new lease of life for the previously redundant allotment site. The produce grown will then be served in the Community Caf in nearby Skinningrove.

The development project, which has been funded by Groundwork South Tees and Barclays Site Savers, is due to be completed this month.

It will include raised beds, fruit trees and areas to grow herbs and vegetables.

Sarah Ransome, Community Project Officer with Groundwork South Tees, said: "Getting the children involved with growing food at such an early age will help them understand the importance of a healthy diet and the benefits of eating organic produce."