Medway’s first ever Master Gardeners are ready to help get households growing their own vegetables and fruit.

The 19 volunteers, recruited from across Medway, all have experience in growing edible crops. They are offering a year of free support to people and communities who have never grown before, or have grown just a little. The Master Gardeners have ideas for crops to be grown everywhere from balconies to allotments - space is not an issue for the team.

Master Gardeners are in Medway for the first time thanks to a partnership of A Better Medway health improvement services and leading charity Garden Organic.

The grow-your-own ambassadors have had training in growing healthy crops, tackling pests and diseases and inspiring new gardeners through their first growing year. Under the Master Gardener scheme, mentors are trained by Garden Organic and then supported to help local people grow their own.

Medway volunteer co-ordinator Liza Scholefield said: “We are delighted to start this project with a great team of enthusiastic volunteers. We look forward to supporting people and groups who want to grow their own, but aren’t sure where or how to start. The project aims to build local skills, encourage organic growing and provide access to fresh, home-grown fruit and vegetables.

"If you live in Medway and would like some advice and support to start growing fruit and vegetables then get in touch. More and more people are becoming interested in growing their own food for reasons ranging from protecting the environment to saving money and having a healthier lifestyle."

A Better Medway is the face of health improvement services in Medway, provided by Medway Council. They provide specialist support, advice, programmes and services to help people living or working in Medway improve their health and well-being.

If you would like help to get started growing your own food, call Liza Scholefield on 07971 280985 or email lscholefield@gardenorganic.org.uk.