A new project to get young people interested in growing their own food prompted a visit to the town by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall.
And folk were able to see for themselves how the Leigh project is progressing when it featured on his River Cottage show on (Wednesday).


The TV presenter and 'real food' campaigner, together with his team, visited the community allotment on Melrose Avenue that was set up in February.
The project is a joint venture between the Leigh Neighbourhood Policing Team and Wigan Council, both to encourage healthier diets and keep youngsters off the streets.



Insp Ian Kennedy of the Leigh Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "This is an excellent example of what can be achieved when police work together with the council.
"The allotment gives young people a really worthwhile activity to get involved in, and my officers will be regularly visiting the site to build positive relationships with them and help the community spirit to prosper.
"I would encourage anyone interested in getting involved to pop down, as they will be most welcome."


Leigh West councillor Myra Whiteside said: "It's a fantastic occasion for this small estate. The scheme has been driven by the community and is a great example of partnership working between the police, local councillors, residents and the council's environmental services.
"A lot of hard work has gone towards making this project happen and we're delighted it captured the imagination of the River Cottage team. We supported it with our Brighter Borough funds because it was such a great idea.
"It has made a real difference to community spirit and is helping local youngsters appreciate the importance of healthy eating."

To contact the Leigh Neighbourhood Policing Team call 0161 856 7225 or you can email leigh.apt@gmp.police.uk. For non-emergency calls or to report crime call police on 0161 872 5050 or for more information visit gmp.police.uk/wigan
l Visit www.leighreporter.
co.uk to let us know what you think of the scheme.