There is an appeal for unwanted gardening tools, as local people start to grow their own food in the gardens of a grand house off Court Road in Freshwater. Once visited by the author Lewis Carroll, Freshwater Court has undergone a major transformation since it changed hands 4 years ago. The new owners inherited 14 acres of empty fields, a collapsed wood and overgrown gardens.
Nearly 100 fallen trees have been cleared, with the help of local woodcarvers. A forgotten locked garage was even discovered. Now work is underway to renovate the vegetable gardens, covering around an acre. Owner Chris Jarman says, "We very quickly found local people eager to grow their own vegetables. [We] divided [the land] into 18 plots - all of which are now taken and full of people digging in manure and starting to plant up sprouts, spring cabbage etc. Some have even managed to get in a late crop of radishes and lettuces." The next step is to build some greenhouses. If you have any wanted spades, wheelbarrows or other equipment, Chris and the gardeners of Freshwater would love to hear more from you.