Allotment memberships on the up

New research has shown that the number of people getting their hands dirty and growing their own food is on the up.

According to a study by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), the UKs premier garden and greenhouse authority, Brits are embracing the fruit and vegetable growing culture with zest.

Figures show that almost three-quarters (73 per cent) of allotments and gardening clubs have seen their membership numbers grow or level off in the past year.

Furthermore, some have even had to create waiting lists due to their rise in popularity, which can be attributed to a number of factors.

According to RHS community horticulture manager Stephanie Eynon, these include the desire to produce your own healthy food while saving money and tapping into the expertise of others.

"But by far the biggest benefit for joining up is the social aspect – which is great," she added.

In other news, Regents Park in London last month became the first royal park to offer training for new allotment gardeners and those involved in community food-growing projects, the RHS reported.