NINETY years on and Diggle Lane allotments continue to grow and grow!

For £30,000 worth of grants planted the seeds for the latest developments at the allotments site off Melrose Avenue and Jackson Close in Elton.

The cash has funded a host of improvements including a polytunnel, a composting toilet, a new community building and a better car park.

The fruits of their labours were unveiled when the self-managed Diggle Lane Allotment Association held a grand opening event, attended by Bury Council leader Bob Bibby and other dignitaries.

Officials hope the new facilities will generate interest among “green-fingered” youngsters to enjoy horticultural activities at the site.

The funding came via a number of sources including the Big Lottery Fund, the Local Area Partnership and the Community Foundation.

Mr Derek Maskrey, who has been association chairman on five separate occasions, said: “The money has allowed us to provide a new composting toilet and to improve our car park. We’ve also bought some new equipment, including a generator, to help with electrical access for events such as barbecues.”

Another major addition is a 35ft long and 15ft wide polytunnel for the growing of vegetables and fruit undercover. “We bought it for use with disabled groups and schools,” added Mr Maskrey. “Basically, because it’s undercover, it allows us to extend the growing season.

“Thanks to the £8,000 Lottery grant, we’ve replaced the wooden hut site office with a new pre-fabricated structure measuring 30ft by 15ft. We’ve fitted it out with a kitchen, a meeting room and other facilities.”

The association hopes to acquire additional land nearby to allow it to add to its 65 plots. Mr Maskrey added: “The allotments are more popular than ever and we’ve a waiting list of 36. This is all about greener, leaner and healthier lifestyles and eating produce that hasn’t travelled thousands of miles.”

He hopes that youngsters will be drawn to the site. “We really believe if we can connect with people in the community and those at a young age, then the need for ASBOs will disappear.”