GROWING and tending vegetables and flowers on a purpose-designed allotment is helping people to improve their mental health.

The allotment in Selby has been rented by North Yorkshire County Council’s Selby Community Recovery Mental Health Team from the town council.

The plot had not been used for several years, so team members had a big job on their hands to clear the site.

They set to work, clearing weeds and debris, but also had help from construction company Nomenca. The firm agreed to help after an approach by the team and brought in workers and machinery to clear and level the site, put in a path and patio and add six raised beds to the one the team had created.

The team discusses with clients how they want to use the allotment and is guided by them in decisions about what they would like to plant and what jobs need to be done.