Deal’s own community hop growing project – the Deal Hop Farm – is launching its sixth season in the town.

Having produced some 100,000 pints of beer in 18 different varieties, members are gearing up to go again.

And they are inviting more people to get involved, with support and guidance given along the way.

Steve Wakeford, of the Deal Hop Farm said: “Last year our patchwork hop farm was made up of 250 peoples’ gardens, allotments, and community gardens and spaces in and around the town.

“We produced an amazing harvest in 2021 of 230 kilos of hops.

“People grow hops and then come together in September for a community harvest.

“Last year we had nearly 400 people involved in ‘hop-picking’.

“The hops are then donated to local brewer Time & Tide who make a range of beers including the celebrated ‘Green Hop’ beer in October and more recently the new Patchwork Deal & Walmer Pale Ales.

“In return members can buy beer at discounted amount as well as getting the odd free sample.”

The initiative was launched in 2017 by local green group ‘Deal With It. The farm now has 250 sites involving nearly 4,000 people.

Mr Wakeford added: “In doing this, we have also produced a fantastic community spirit involving several hundred people in the town.

“It is a great example of ‘local food’ linking local growers, local brewery and local pubs.”

The first year cost is £20 and includes the hop plant (rhizome) and a starter kit.

Hops need to be planted by the end of March.

He continued: “Hops can be easily grown in back gardens and even in containers.

“The key things are plenty of sunshine, a well drained soil, shelter from the wind and something to support them.

“The idea is to work together to grow, harvest, learn, have fun with hops and produce some (more) quality local beer.”

A launch meeting will take place tomorrow (Wednesday) at 6.30pm at the Lighthouse pub on The Strand for people to find out more.

For further details email info@dealhopfarm.org.uk or phone 01304 372673