CHILDREN and parents got together to get their hands dirty, grow and cook their own food.

Junior wardens, aged ten and 11, from Willow Brook Primary School have this week been harvesting lettuces, broad beans, beetroots and carrots at Notley’s Allotment, off Harwich Road, Colchester.

They were joined by parents who have taken part in Colchester Council’s cooking on a budget classes, which were organised to help people get more for their money at their weekly shop.

The parents and children came together for the first time to put their skills to the test by digging up the vegetables.

They were joined by Mike Lilley, councillor responsible for safer communities and licensing, and councillor responsible for business, leisure and opportunities, Annie Feltham who got their hands dirty.

In recent weeks, volunteers have been making greenhouses made out of hundreds of plastic bottles and a bug hotel of salvaged materials at the site.

Mr Lilley said: “By partnering with schools and organisations these projects are fantastic examples of what can be achieved to support a happier, healthy borough.

“Not being a confident cook or having a garden at home should not be a barrier to families enjoying healthy home cooking and fresh produce.”