It’s been a busy few months for Windermere Food Farm since the project moved to its new home at Matson Ground, and it’s fantastic to see the community garden taking shape.

Volunteers have been busy preparing beds, planting, weeding and harvesting, with the first produce having already made its way to the local food bank. Chard, broad beans, beetroot, onions, garlic and courgettes have all been harvested, with potatoes, shallots and plenty more vegetables now growing.

The site has come a long way too. New beds and paths have been created, an apple tree has been planted and, thanks to a grant from Windermere and Bowness Town Council, a new polytunnel has been installed. This will give the project valuable extra growing space and help extend the season.

It hasn’t all been plain sailing. The hot, dry weather has been challenging, while rabbits have enjoyed rather more of the carrots, lettuce, cucumber and beans than we would have liked. Thankfully, plenty of other crops have done well.

A big part of the project’s success has been the support from local people. Seeds, plants, compost and other materials have been donated, while volunteers have given their time to help get everything planted and growing.

Tim Keenan, director and founder of Windermere Food Farm CIC, said: “Having a permanent home at Matson Ground has given the project the opportunity to really develop. It’s fantastic to see the site progressing and, most importantly, to be able to grow food for the local food bank.”

There’s still lots to do as the garden moves into the autumn and winter seasons, including sowing winter vegetables, preparing new beds and making the most of the polytunnel.

We’re delighted to be supporting Windermere Food Farm and to see Matson Ground playing a small part in such a worthwhile local project. A huge thank you to everyone who has volunteered, donated or supported the project so far.

If you’d like to get involved, volunteer sessions are open to everyone. You can find upcoming sessions through the Friends of Windermere Food Farm Facebook group or contact Tim Keenan at [email protected].