An open afternoon has been held at Seaton Delaval Hall but people can also contact Mark Warr on 0191 237 9107 for more details.

The allotment project has been backed by funding from Gregg’s Foundation.

Gateshead Council has also created four community plots at Saltwell Park, where support will be provided by council staff with horticultural knowledge.

Plots are being managed by the Friends of Saltwell Park, South Street Primary School, Corpus Christi Primary School and a group of students from Gateshead College.

John Robinson, group director of local environmental services at Gateshead Council, said: “The new community beds at Saltwell Park are a great way for everyone to get outdoors and learn some valuable skills. They also provide an opportunity for community groups to grow their own food in a healthy and sustainable way.

“The groups will manage their bed until the crops are ready to be harvested and eaten. The space will then become available to another group to take over so that they too can grow their own food.”

The students from Gateshead College are completing a City and Guilds Entry Level Certificate in Skills for Working Life, which includes a horticulture unit. The growing of crops will also count towards the unit and help to increase their employability.

Community groups interested in managing a bed for the next rotation should contact Kelly Anderson, education and interpretation office at Gateshead Council, on 0191 433 5918 or by email to kellyanderson@gateshead.gov.uk