PEOPLE in north Durham are being encouraged to grow their own herbs and vegetables.

Groundwork North East is launching a new project in Catchgate called The Street Eats.

The aim is to provide people with the opportunity to get involved in growing healthy, affordable food in their local area.

Participants will be provided with all they need to grow food in spaces not traditionally associated with growing, such as containers and window boxes, verges, in back alleys and yards.

The needs of each resident and street will be taken into consideration when providing growing spaces.

More information will be available on Saturday, March 1 from 10am to 12pm at Annfield Plain Library.

Everyone attending the event will have the opportunity to plant some chives and take them home to use in their cooking.

Children will also have the opportunity to make cress heads.

A spokesman for Groundwork North-East said: “The project delivers hands-on training to residents to inspire them to grow and cook fruit, vegetables and herbs in their streets.

“Added benefits include raising awareness of healthy eating and greater community cohesion.”

Participating residents will get all tools, materials and plants or seeds required. Streets will receive ongoing support and encouragement throughout, along with training and events, such as competitions, street meals and wild food walks.

For any further information about the Street Eats project, contact Lynne Miller, senior project officer for Groundwork North-East on 01207-524803 or email lynne.miller @groundwork.org.uk