The Albermarle community plot is an allotment that grows food and donates it to food banks and charities in South Manchester.
Based at Albermarle Allotments in Withington, the group was started during the pandemic by Hilary Moules, with the idea to provide fresh food to those struggling in the community.
Hilary said: “I was very concerned about food waste and poverty so it was an opportunity to address that. One of the issues with food banks is that a lot of them don’t take fresh food, so finding one that does is not as easy as you’d imagine.”
The plot now produces everything from Rhubarb, to Runner beans, Chillis, Aubergines and potatoes which are then donated to St Paul’s Church in Withington, the Burnage Community Centre food club, and Food cycle in Wythenshawe.
Around 20 volunteers tend to the plot year round, from weekly planting sessions to a few minutes watering the crops in dryer spells, and then harvesting and transporting the food to the charities.
Nicola Caroll started volunteering at the plot after being contacted by Hilary and she really enjoys the community aspect of the group.
She said: “It’s just a really nice mix of ages and people. There’s no expectations for anyone to be here every week. You can come when you want to, it’s very relaxed, and everyone is very friendly.”
You can find the group on instagram: @albermarle_community_plot
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