THE first in a series of projects to encourage people to stay fit by tending to their vegetables has opened in Fishburn.

Groundwork East Durham, the driving force behind Fishburn Community Allotment, is looking for people interested in growing healthy food, getting some exercise or looking for a new hobby.

The organisation has used Sedgefield Borough Council trainees to complete work on the community allotment under the borough's Passport to Health initiative.

The site includes a large greenhouse and tools. It is open to anyone and can offer practical training for novices

The project, which has been funded by the New Opportunities Fund, Sedgefield NHS Primary Care Trust and One NorthEast, is free and there are prizes for those taking part.

Groundwork is looking for individuals and groups to help cultivate and manage the allotment.

Stephen Armstrong, of Groundwork East Durham, said: "If you don't live nearby there is no need to be downhearted. This is the first of seven Passport to Health allotments that Groundwork will be developing in Sedgefield over the next three years.

"The next locations to receive a community allotment will be Shildon and Trimdon Village."

For details about the allotment scheme or future venues, call Stephen Armstrong on 0191-527 3333.