Warwickshire News Mine

Just nine months old, the Garden Organic Master Gardener programme – a volunteer network supporting Warwickshire residents to grow food – has also reached over 4,500 people in the wider community.

Now Garden Organic, the UK’s leading organic growing charity, is looking for more food growing enthusiasts to join the dedicated team of Master Gardeners in Warwickshire who are sharing their enthusiasm for food growing with their communities. Together they aim to build local skills, encourage organic growing and provide access to fresh, home-grown fruit and vegetables.

Mentors are fully trained by Garden Organic and then supported by the charity to help local people grow their own in partnership with Warwickshire County Council, Sheepdrove Trust and Big Lottery’s Local Food Scheme. Warwickshire Volunteer Co-ordinator, Kate Newman, said, “There is an increasing interest in where our food comes from and growing your own is the cheapest and most enjoyable way of ensuring the quality of your food.”

“The scheme works by offering individuals and communities practical advice and mentoring. It is about enthusing people about food growing whilst offering the support that they need along the journey. Some Master Gardeners help schools, others community gardens and centres, or at people at home, where even a tiny balcony or windowsill can grow tomatoes and herbs.”

Martin Stott, Warwickshire County Council’s Head of Environment and Resources, commented: “Almost anyone can have a go at growing their own food. You don’t even need a garden – you can grow from containers – so all you need is a bit of enthusiasm and you can become a gardener.

“It is hugely satisfying when you sit down to eat and see the greens from your garden on the plate. I sincerely hope more volunteers sign up as Master Gardeners and spread the gospel of gardening to the wider community.”

More people are becoming interested in growing their own food for reasons ranging from protecting the environment, health, saving money and re-connecting with nature. Kate adds, “It’s a fantastic activity to involve children in, I’ve seen it myself; when children grow food themselves, even the fussy eaters want to try it.”

The great thing about the scheme is you don’t have to be an expert to be eligible to volunteer; all that is required is some experience of growing your own, together with a passion for encouraging others to have a go. Full Master Gardener training is provided covering everything a volunteer should need to know, with additional support from a dedicated Volunteer Co-ordinator.

If you live in Warwickshire and are interested in becoming a Master Gardener, or are a resident looking for food growing advice, please call Kate Newman on 024 7621 7721, or email at: knewman@gardenorganic.org.uk to find out more.

For more information, visit http://www.warwickshire.mastergardeners.org.uk

Link to WCC