CELEBRATED gardener Charlie McCormick opened a new allotment – then got straight to work planting some beans.

He was invited to officially open the Living Tree's site on Pymore Road, Bridport.

The organisation, which supports those who are affected by cancer, held a small opening event on Friday, March 19.

The allotment was acquired by the Living Tree to provide a place where anyone affected by cancer can go and nurture the fruits, herbs and vegetables, whilst also being able to join some face-to-face interaction and banter out in the fresh air.

The event saw Alison Boyland, who has been leading the allotment project, give a speech to say thank you to all of those who assisted in helping the project become a reality. She then read a poem from one of the group's members about how the group has brought people together.

Mr McCormick, who writes about gardening for a number of national publications and has appeared on BBC's Gardeners World, then cut the ribbon before breaking the allotment in and planting a row of broad beans.

He said: "I think this is such a brilliant idea and was very keen to be involved since it's a local project. It really gives people who are struggling an opportunity to have some interaction which, especially coming out of the lockdown, is so important.

"It's amazing how much work has been done at the allotment to make it ready. I've really enjoyed being here and getting to meet all these great new people and being involved in the Living Tree."

The allotment was first acquired in October and a lot of work has been put in by the group's members to have it ready to open to the public. Members stated that the project had been carried out in memory of the group's co-founder Jo O'Farrell, along with longtime member, Fiona Burkeman.

Alison Boyland said: "It feels great to finally be able to open the allotment after months of work. Lockdown restrictions are being lifted and very soon people will be able to join us here.

"The Zoom meetings have been great but virtual meetings don't suit everyone and it will be great for everyone to be able to meet once again - working on the garden and enjoying some laughter, comradery and the company of friends.

"There are so many health benefits which go along with gardening, from the physical activity, to the fresh air and good company to the sounds of the birds tweeting. There is so much gardening knowledge in the group as well so I think it's going to look great."

From the beginning of April, the Living Tree will be hosting a drop-in gardening session every Wednesday from 10am-12pm - with anyone in the local community whose lives have been affected by cancer welcome. The allotment can be found on Pymore Road opposite St Catherine's School.