ULVERSTON MIND hosted a successful seed, plants and garden equipment swap day on its thriving allotment at The Ellers.

The event showed how the plot has been transformed from an overgrown patch of land to a well-managed and vibrant space, under the care of the mental health charity and its volunteers.

Among those attending was Ulverston mayor Cllr Mark Wilson, who said: "I was very impressed with a very tidy and well thought-out allotment where lots of hard work has taken place. It’s also got a great shed for shelter from the elements but also as a social space."

Kenny Tyson, volunteer allotment project manager for Ulverston MIND, said it was "excellent" to see so many people of all ages enjoying the event.

"The allotment has been built based upon everyone’s ideas," explained Kenny. "It is a place where people can come and relax and join in as much as they would like. Gardening is therapeutic and gets people socialising."

Also taking part was Lyn Richardson, community engagement officer at South Lakes Housing, who told the Gazette : "Families enjoyed getting dirty and planting their own peas to take away and grow."

Meanwhile, Katharine Smith, waste prevention officer at Cumbria County Council, said it was great to see so many people interested in growing their own food.

Ulverston MIND's gardening group meets every Wednesday from 11am to 1pm.

The charity is based at Quebec Street and offers specialist services including drop-in sessions, post-natal support, counselling, creative writing, art therapy and informal advocacy. For more, visit www.ulverstonmind.org.uk