GREEN-FINGERED residents have been enjoying a new community allotment thanks to a voluntary service.

Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST), registered with Harwich Town Council to join the waiting list for a community allotment in Dovercourt back in April last year.

When a plot at Long Meadows became available in November, Tracy Lawrie, CVST community development officer, began work on the land.

Members had their first official visit to the site last Tuesday, despite the cold and windy conditions.

Tracy said: “The members thoroughly enjoyed their first visit, they shared lifts to the site and are already forming friendships.

“One member said they loved it and can’t wait to come back.

“The atmosphere and smiles were priceless as the group chatted, sipped coffee and shared ideas about future planting.

“Community Voluntary Services Tendring is so excited for this project and the opportunities it will offer the community.”

The group plans to meet once a week for a couple of hours, but aims to increase this as the growing season progresses.

The members are using their own tools, but are looking for donations for items, such as tools, seeds and plant pots, and are also looking for more members to join the community project.

The allotment is part of the lottery funded Hill Project to support healthier independent longer lives with the aim to improve the community’s well-being, physical fitness and support social engagement to prevent isolation.

If you would like to hear more about the project, call the Dovercourt and Harwich Hub on 01255 554115.