Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, got stuck in at Cheslyn Hay Allotments to learn more about their project with Cheslyn Hay Primary School.
Members of the allotments have been working with Primary school to promote healthy eating and the benefits of growing your own food. Projects have included promoting gardening amongst the children as well as cultivating a WW1 style garden plot.
During his visit Gavin joined Councillor Dave Lockley and Cheslyn Hay pupils to plant potatoes, onions and sow beetroot. He also helped out crushing apples for fresh juice.
First given to the community in 1892, the allotments now number over a hundred plots and play host to a variety of events, with many off their surplus produce being sold locally.
Commenting on his visit, Gavin said: “It is fantastic to see how Cheslyn Hay Allotments is continuing to grow and to play a part in the local community. I think it’s a brilliant idea to get more children to take an interest in how food is grown and a balanced diet. The pupils seemed to have really enjoyed planting their own vegetables and making their apple juice and I hope it encourages them to get out into the garden and grow some more. I thoroughly enjoyed the visit and I wish all those involved in the project every success for the future”.