AN overgrown allotment in York has been transformed into the classic setting of a Parisian park.

French Boules fan Rebecca Horner, 34, who lives off Heslington Road, spent £1,500 converting the abandoned plot into a petanque piste in order to encourage the community to take up the game.

Families will be able to hire out the pitch for free at the Low Moor allotment, between Fulford Road and Heslington Road, and even fire up a barbecue while they play.

Petanque is hugely popular in France and is a common sight in the parks of Paris.

It is usually played in teams of two and involves tossing steel boules into a hard gravel surface to get as close as possible to a smaller jack. The balls will be available at the Low Moor gardeners' store.

"I first discovered petanque about two years ago and loved the game immediately," Rebecca said.

"Friends, fresh air, a bit of friendly competition - who could ask for a better summer evening?

"We've had about 15 people working as volunteers and encouragement from lots more.

"The ground was full of rubbish and more had collected in the brambles overhead. We're now planting the borders of the pitch with flowers to attract insects and butterflies, and in the autumn we'll be adding a hedge of native species to encourage the local birdlife."

Al Oswald, chairman of Low Moor Allotments Association, said: "Allotment gardening is changing. Many people are realising that an allotment - like any other garden - is a place to relax and have fun, not just for growing vegetables."

Judith Ward, City of York Council's newly-appointed allotments officer, said: "It's an innovative idea that has turned a long-term problem into an asset for the whole community. It's certainly an exciting way for me to start my new job!"

Rebecca raised the money following generous donations from sponsors including, York Community Pride, B&Q and York Common Good Trust.

Updated: 10:47 Friday, July 29, 2005