Local community project, Reddy Lane Market Garden, was today praised by Esther McVey, MP for Tatton, for the great work it does with educating local people about growing their own organic veg as well as providing them with freshly sourced vegetables through their ‘veg boxes’ scheme.
The MP described the group’s work as ‘inspiring’ when she visited the project today, to meet local volunteers and beneficiaries. The Tatton MP was shown around the market garden where volunteers were taking part in gardening sessions. The budding gardeners showcased their new skills and even had time for a cup of tea with their local MP.
The newly appointed minister of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) met with the project lead, Lindsay Whalen, to discuss the work the group does and how it’s benefiting people in the area.
Reddy Lane Market Garden received £10,000 in funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK.
During her visit Esther McVey MP learned how this money has been put to good use to support volunteers to gain knowledge about small scale farming and improve their food growing skills. From tilling the ground to planting, volunteers at the market garden are taught all the essential skills needed to become self-sufficient and have confidence in their ability to grow their own organic food.
Esther McVey MP said: “It’s fantastic to hear that thousands of pounds of National Lottery funding have gone to projects in Tatton – including the Reddy Lane Market Garden which is providing the local community with the skills needed to be self-sufficient. Not only is the project teaching local volunteers how to grow their own vegetables it’s also providing the community with fresh locally grown produce.”
Lindsay Whalen, Head Farmer at Reddy Lane Market Garden, said: “Thanks to National Lottery players we were able to get the tools and equipment for people to use, which will help both the project and plants to flourish for years to come. We were absolutely thrilled when we received the funding. Volunteers at the project will learn about scaling up food production and gain a tangible understanding of the pressures on the farming community. The sessions are enjoyable and focus on their wellbeing.”
Duncan Nicholson, head of funding for the North West at The National Lottery Community Fund, said: “We’re proud to award money raised by National Lottery players to communities across the UK. By funding great projects like Reddy Lane Market Garden - their gardening sessions are providing local people with invaluable skills and helping to improve their health and wellbeing. People know what’s needed in their communities better than anyone else – and our funding enables ideas to come to life and support communities to thrive.”
The National Lottery Community Fund distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes. Last year it awarded over half a billion pounds (£508.5 million) and supported over 11,000 projects across the UK for health, education, environment and charitable purposes, with 90% of the grants under £10,000.
To find out more visit www.TNLCommunityFund.org.uk
