New allotments have officially opened in Colchester, giving green thumbs the chance to grow their own food straight from the vegetable patch.

The latest allotment to open is on Kirby Drive, after Colchester Council's cabinet member for communities Beverley Oxford, performed the official opening.

A total of 38 plots have been created in the town by developers Taylor Wimpey, which is responsible for the new 700 home development at the former Severalls Hospital site in north Colchester.

Mrs Oxford said: “It’s a pleasure to open the new allotments at Kirby Drive – I know that the new allotment holders will get much satisfaction from cultivating their own plot of land, as well as a good crop of fruit and vegetables.

Read more:

• New garden communities consultation launches

• Colchester Gazette readers showcase their glorious gardens

• Camera Club: Nature endures despite ravages of Covid-19

“Allotments are excellent for contributing to a year-round healthy lifestyle and help to promote sustainability and well-being.

"Gardening is a great way of exercising and staying health, making friends, and getting involved in the community.”

The council has more than 1,100 allotment plots across 19 allotment sites in Colchester.

Anyone over the age of 18 years is welcome to rent a plot. To find out more information about the allotments or to rent a space, go to colchester.gov.uk/allotments/apply-for-an-allotment.