MEMBERS of a gardening group have launched an appeal to shoppers in order to help them receive funding.

Garnock Valley Allotment Association has been chosen to benefit from the Co-op’s Local Community Fund.

The Kilbirnie-based group, which has around 50 members, provides ground space and amenities to enable people to grow food.

Amenities include the use of machinery and tools, secure storage, rainwater collection points, shelter, and a composting toilet.

The association’s treasurer, Jacki Bennett, said: “We are trying to raise funds to encourage new members to come along and join us, especially those who have maybe never tried gardening before.

“People are both friendly and helpful and there are always plenty of folks around to lend a hand or give advice when it is needed.

“Everyone should have the chance to benefit from the fresh air, exercise and healthy lifestyle which can be attained just by having your own plot.

“We just want to make it easier for people to come and do it.

“Vacant plots will be taken to a basic standard to enable new gardeners to quickly get started with the important business of growing their own stuff.

“To help us raise vital funds, we’ll be relying on Co-op shoppers. Every time they buy Co-op own-brand products they get a five per cent reward for themselves, and a further one per cent goes to local causes like ours.

“Co-op members can decide which local group they would like to back. We really hope that people will visit the website and choose to support us.”

To support the group, click here.