A COMMUNITY allotment in Leigh will feature on tonight's (Wednesday) episode of the River Cottage TV series about self-sufficiency.

Eccentric chef and Eton old boy Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and his team recently visited Leigh and the Melrose Avenue allotment that was set up in February to get young people interested in growing fruit and vegetables.

The project is a joint venture between the Leigh Neighbourhood Policing Team and Wigan Council, and the programme about it was broadcast last night (Wednesday)., Inspector Ian Kennedy of the Leigh Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “This is an excellent example of what can be achieved when police work together with the council.

"The allotment gives young people a really worthwhile activity to get involved in, and my officers will be regularly visiting the site to build positive relationships with them and help the community spirit to prosper.

"I would encourage anyone interested in getting involved to pop down, as they will be most welcome.”

Leigh West councillor Myra Whiteside said: "It's a fantastic occasion for this small estate. The scheme has been driven by the community and is a great example of partnership working between the police, local councillors, residents and the council's environmental services.

"A lot of hard work has gone towards making this project happen and we're delighted it captured the imagination of the River Cottage team.

"We supported it with our Brighter Borough funds because it was such a great idea. It has made a real difference to community spirit and is helping local youngsters appreciate the importance of healthy eating."