A PROJECT to teach young people about the benefits of organic and community gardening has been awarded an £18,000 grant.

Brandon Allotments Ltd was set up by allotment holders to develop a derelict area of land as a community resource, promote organic gardening, involve schools and preserve the allotment heritage of the County Durham village.

The project has received cash and help from a number of sources, including Durham City Council, the Coalfield Regeneration Trust, Local Agenda 21 teams, and Groundwork East Durham.

The project has now secured an £18,000 grant from the Social, Economic and Environmental Development Programme, operated by the Royal Society for Nature Conservation.

Company secretary John Kitching said: "The community garden project at the Welfare allotments is being developed to pass on the skills required to promote the hobby of allotment keeping, and to be utilised by local schools, including special needs children, to promote the growing of organic vegetables and living a healthier lifestyle.

"In time we could diversify to involve adult groups, hopefully bringing in community service offenders."

Glen Duckett, from Groundwork East Durham, said: "Groundwork is helping with the fundraising, landscape design, engaging the local community, providing expertise and linking into schools and the county council.

"The project will provide a community resource encouraging healthier lifestyles for those living in Brandon."

Chairman Kenny Jackson said: "There will be a wildlife pond, raised vegetable beds for the disabled, washing facilities and a composting toilet. There is even room for solar lighting."