Family event encourages Oldham residents to get growing

A free, family friendly community event is taking place in Oldham to help bring together people interested in growing.

The Community Growing Conference takes place at Gallery Oldham and Oldham Library and Lifelong Learning Centre on Saturday, March 10 between 10.30am and 2.30pm.

There will be a wide variety of stalls, a chance to buy seed potatoes, family friendly growing and cooking activities, guidance on funding for groups and much more.

Experts from Salford University will be on hand to help with soil testing – just bring a soil sample from your growing site.

You can also enjoy a guided walk down the fruit route on Union Street.

The event also welcomes Oldham Theatre Workshop who will perform their bee dance.

People will be able to share their thoughts on green issues as part of the Greater Manchester Green Summit. Those who can’t attend but would like to give feedback can fill in the online survey: www.pollev.com/GreenSummit

A number of workshops are on offer, including willow weaving, family friendly planting and cooking, flower arranging, and soil and composting.

Participants can also find out what makes a winning allotment and hear from The Kindling Trust about sustainable food systems.

Cllr Barbara Brownridge, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods and Cooperatives, said: “Through our Get Oldham Growing scheme we’re ensuring that residents have the support they need to eat healthily and live a more active lifestyle.

“We currently have three growing hubs in Oldham with two more about to open and plans for a further two underway.

“Events like this not only encourage more people to start growing and eating healthily but they also bring people together.

“Growing your own food keeps you active, encourages you to eat healthily and try new foods and can save you money. We urge anyone interested in growing to come along.”

Places for the workshops and the opening session are limited – book your free place at www.oldham.gov.uk/growingconference or contact Anne Fleming on 0161 770 1876 or email: anne.fleming@oldham.gov.uk

To learn more about growing in Oldham visit www.oldham.gov.uk/getoldhamgrowing