Active Allotment
Monday 11-Sunday 17 August is National Allotments week and to mark the occasion, Mansfield District Council is celebrating the work of its Community Allotment.
The Allotment at Barratts Field, off Chesterfield Road South boasts an undercover teaching space, four large growing areas and a poly tunnel, is a facility from which people of all ages have benefited; from children with learning difficulties to the elderly.
The plot offers and alternative approach to physical activity and is one of a number of activities offered by the Active Choices scheme.
There are activities to suit all abilities ranging from pricking out seedlings, which can help arthritic fingers remain nimble, to raking or hoeing which can benefit those suffering with medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
The plot offers an alternative approach to physical activity encouraging people to 'work out' in the community and join in the fun of 'green exercise'; growing and sampling their own produce, whilst socialising, keeping active and gaining knowledge about healthy eating.
Regular users at the moment include groups with brain injuries from Innova House and physical disabilities from Redoaks Day Centre as well as pupils with special educational needs from Queen Elizabeth School in Mansfield.
People on the Get Active scheme – who are referred by their GPs are also given the opportunity to work on the allotment as part of their 12 week programme of exercise and healthy eating.
Councillor Eddie Smith, Portfolio Holder for the Environment at Mansfield District Council commented: "As part of National Allotments week, it is only appropriate that we celebrate the good work carried out as part of Mansfield District Council's Active Choices and Get Active schemes."
"Our allotment plot gives people the opportunity to try allotment gardening without having to take on a plot of their own and learn about diet, exercise and healthy eating at the same time."