In the same week as our seventh Garden Share began, we had this coverage in the Macc Express.
Congratulations to our Graden Share Co-ordinator Ruth Shercliff, and thanks to reporter Rhiannon McDowall for a very well worded article.
MACCLESFIELD EXPRESS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2010
Comfort food for sharing
by Rhiannon McDowall
Vegetables have thrived and friendships have blossomed thanks to the Food4Macc shared garden scheme.
Norman Whyatt, 77, of Monsall Drive, Macclesfield, allows Claire Finnis and John Marsh to grow fruit and vegetables in his back garden in return for a share of the crop.
But the great-grandfather of two, whose wife Madge died just over a year ago, said the duo's company is just as welcome as the veg.
He said: "I think the scheme is absolutely fantastic, I would recommend it to anyone.
"My wife died 13 months ago and it all got a bit much for me. It's nice for me because I come home and I have someone to chat to two or three times a week."
George, who is a retired Co-operative officer, added:
"They have done such a good job on it, it looked great in the summer.
"I came home from Buxton the other day and there was a turnip and some peas on my doorstep."
Claire Finnis, 36, of Rodney Street, Macclesfield, works on the garden as often as possible with pal John, of Vincent Street.
The mum of one said: "It's a great idea. I think Norman likes the company and it's only five minutes up the road for us.”
"I was on a waiting list for an allotment but last time I checked I was one of about 400, so this is perfect."
Food4Macc was launched in March this year and is encouraging more food to be produced locally, reducing the community's oil dependency and carbon footprint.
If you would like to get involved as a grower or a land owner; call Ruth on 01260 253987 or email gardenshare@food4macc.org
An article written by Sara Wreford has led to the Rowans being awarded "Community Garden of the Month" and £350 worth of gardening equipment by Garden Answers Magazine
