CAMELFORD Allotments and Community Gardens took another step forward on Saturday, when a communal work morning saw hardcore being spread in the entrance and the allotment plots pegged out.

This exciting project is a joint venture between local land owner Jo Old, Camelford Town Council and Camelford Gardeners' Association, a volunteer organisation run by local people.

The project is a response to local demand, with over 30 people making a ­commitment to take on a plot or half plot and enjoy the benefits of growing their own fruit and vegetables and meeting a whole range of new people.

The project has attracted people from all over the town and of all ages from 65-plus to babes in arms.

People will soon be able to get onto their plots and start work, preparing the ground for planting. In the long term there are hopes of an annual open day, running workshops on such things as preserving your harvest, propagation etc, along with visits to other gardens.

A spokesman said: "Camelford Gardeners' Association is about to start fundraising for sheds for the plots, and if you feel you can help us with either a donation or by offering a good price please contact Claire on 01840 213232."

There are still a few plots available, so if you live in Camelford and would be interested in finding out more please contact Claire Hewlett on the above number.

John Pearce, Deputy Mayor of Camelford, said: "Camelford Town Council has looked for a suitable allotment site for many years, but without success. However, the great generosity of Jo Old, licensee of the Masons Arms in Camelford, has now provided a site on a ten year lease. The allotments will be managed by the town council in collaboration with the recently formed Gardeners' Association.

"The rent for the site is to be a white rose presented each year to Jo on March 5 — St Piran's Day — a wonderful example of Cornish humour and community spirit."