Published at 09:09, Monday, 16 January 2012

BIRTLEY is one of Tynedale’s smaller villages – but its reputation for top class gardeners spreads well beyond the North Tyne.

For the 60-odd members of the Birtley and District Gardening Group include green-fingered gurus from as far afield as Walbottle and West Boldon, as well as people from the village.

Having recently celebrated a decade of hugely successful winter gardening talks from a wide range of fascinating UK speakers, the association is now inviting anyone keen to start an allotment, grow veg or simply grow their own in these times of austerity, to come and air any problems or questions at its meetings.

Secretary Margaret Watson is already planning a workshop with Kate Slade , head gardener at the award-winning Battlesteads Hotel in Wark, and the group enjoys a full programme of visits to local gardens of special interest and summer coach trips to gardens in the North of England and in Scotland.

Margaret said: “Money’s tight for most people at present and we know that some children and young people are keen to grow their own vegetables, but are unsure about where to start, about soil types, how much seed to sow and how to keep pests at bay.”

For further information about the group ring (01434) 230 204, or emailfmwatson@townhead.entadsl.com

Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk