A PIONEERING project in Hatherleigh, which offers disadvantaged people the chance to learn life skills, has received a boost thanks to the provision of land for allotments.

Twelve allotments, provided for the local community on land at West Fishleigh Farm, will be used by not-for-profit community interest company Made-Well.

The project provides employment, volunteering, training and life skills opportunities for residents, schools and disadvantaged people with learning difficulties and mental health issues.

It includes a nursery garden, allotment scheme, farm animals and kitchens, where participation and training can be delivered under the project heading, 'Grow, Cook, Eat'.

Farmer and landowner of Fishleigh Farm Carol Barkwell said: 'Made-Well has been set up to give opportunities to disadvantaged and disabled local people.

'It allows them to get involved with worthwhile, community-based activities to encourage them to learn life skills so that they may well be able to move on and become more independent.

'Hatherleigh Parish Council were looking for a piece of land to offer local residents to have allotments and they felt it fitted in very well with the project.

'For me it is about giving something to the community.'

The Made-Well project has been devised to educate people about growing, processing and marketing local food.

It will provide much needed learning, volunteering and job opportunities within the community and will work in conjunction with the local medical centre to promote the link between food and healthy lifestyles.

It will also run seasonal events throughout the year.

Chairman of the allotment association Graham Hole, who has been actively involved in setting up the scheme, said: 'Our members are looking forward to digging in to their individual plots.

'It is an exiting time for all, and we are all pleased that the weather has improved in time for our first planting season.'

Hatherleigh Town Cllr Liz Abell, who has also been involved in the scheme, said: 'We are delighted to be part of this vibrant new project and everyone looks forward to reaping the benefits of shared learning opportunities, as well as the wonderful fresh produce that will be grown.'

As well as horticulture and animal husbandry, Made-Well offers a range of arts and craft activities, including glass, pottery and fabric painting, bird-boxes, willow weaving, jewellery making, paper mache, cake decorating and much more.

The project also hopes to have a professional kitchen area and café built to facilitate cookery courses, once funds have been secured.

There is no limit on age or ability to join in the activities, just a willingness to want to participate.

The project is open from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm, offering half or full-day opportunities.

Anyone interested in finding out more can phone Julie on 07793 324878 or Carol on 07785 971960.