Kirkstall Valley Development Trust in Leeds looking for new members in 2021

Kirkstall Valley Development Trust in Leeds wants to reach a target of 200 members in 2021, which it describes as "the big year".

After launching a community farm in 2019 near Cardigan Fields, the trust aims to supply fresh vegetables to the community as well as making the farm a social and educational focus for the area.

The trust said: "We're really geared up for that post-Covid Spring. This is the big year. We've done much of the preparation and in the New Year will be putting up extra polytunnels and creating a visitor and storage compound thanks to a £26,000 grant from the Veolia Trust.

"For 18 months we have been getting things ready, now we have to deliver. The Grower will be appointed in February and we'll need all the volunteers we can get as the restrictions begin to lift.

"We're clearer than ever that it's not all about veg. Healthy living is about enjoying yourself with others at the farm, appreciating nature and learning about what we eat. Our first forays into family events were a great success. We want to do more social activities for both members and the community.

"Your membership subscription will allow us to be more than growers and to turn the Farm into a real community asset.

"Creating a new inner city community farm is a big deal. It's very rare, and we're lucky to have the opportunity. Please help us succeed."

It costs £24 a year to become a member.

The trust, which owned and run by its local members, was set up in 2016.

It works with Leeds City Council, aiming among other ambitions to create a community space at Abbey Mills, build a strong community hub on Kirkstall Valley Retail Park and community-supported agriculture at Kirkstall Valley Farm.

For more information, visit www.kirkstallvalleyfarm.org.uk.