Allotment holders asked by Newark and Sherwood District Council to donate leftover unused fruit and veg under new initiative

Allotment holders are being asked to donate leftover unused fruit and vegetables under a new initiative that aims to support families across Newark and Sherwood.

Created by Newark and Sherwood District Council, Crop Drop gives allotment holders the chance to support residents across the district with fresh fruit and vegetables.

As part of the campaign, the council is helping to link allotments and food projects in the district.

Council leader David Lloyd, said: “This is a great initiative that I am looking forward to seeing grow and flourish over the next few months.

“Not only will this help our keen allotment growers find willing outlets for their excess crop, it also provides families across the district with delicious ingredients while teaching our younger generations about how food is grown, harvested and enjoyed.

“It’s rewarding to see allotment owners supporting our communities. This initiative will really bring the community together and will see local people helping one another.”

On an agreed day, allotment holders can leave their leftover produce in an arranged collection box on-site, protected from the weather and hungry animals.

A volunteer driver then picks up the fruit and vegetables and transports them to a charity project.

Charity projects will then distribute the food to their recipients, or it will be used in schools and children’s centres as part of a family cooking programme.

Allotment owners who would like to be part of the initiative can register with Helen Ellison via email at helen.ellison@nsdc.info or call 01636 655990 for more information.