RESIDENTS dug up plenty of enthusiasm for Radcliffe’s own ‘Big Dig’ event at the weekend when they planted fruit and veg behind the Metrolink station.

The event was held on Saturday to help launch Incredible Edible in Radcliffe and volunteers got stuck in to show their support for the initiative.

Space behind Radcliffe Metrolink Station in Spring Lane alongside the disabled access path is now home to fruit and veg beds and some fruit trees, as well as a wildflower area.

Incredible Edible groups grow vegetables, fruit and herbs in public gardens which members of the public can help themselves to.

The aim of the day was to encourage residents to form a new Radcliffe branch of the initiative. There are already branches in Prestwich, Ramsbottom and Tottington.

George Heron, from the Prestwich and district Incredible Edible group, believes the day went well and met its main objective which was to gain more interest from members of the public.

Mr Heron hopes that, if people get behind the idea of a separate Radcliffe group, new growing beds could be installed near Radcliffe Library, at Wellspring House in Radcliffe New Road and at the Radcliffe Tower heritage site in Close Park.

“The day went really well. We had around 20 people sign up showing their interest and 10 to 12 people actively digging up the site,” said Mr Heron.

“A number of those people were walking past getting on or off the tram who stopped to join in.”

The next session to continue planting at the site will take place on April 12 and volunteers are welcome to get involved.

For details: call Mr Heron on 0161 798 8762 or e-mail george@heronbg.info