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Around 6,000 people are actively involved in the city's allotments, including more families, young people and schools than ever.  Almost 2,000 plots, covering 64 hectares are now cultivated by green-fingered gardeners.

The city council has invested thousands of pounds in many allotment sites, improving facilities and making many disabled friendly - with plans in place to have all the allotments more accessible for people with disabilities by 2010.

Liverpool city council's executive member for the environment, Councillor Berni Turner, said:
"It's great news that Liverpool residents are making the most of these fantastic spaces.  Healthy living is a priority and I'm delighted so many young people are taking up the challenge.

"There are so many benefits to becoming a plot holder - it's great exercise, you can grow your own fruit and vegetables and it's also a great place to meet new people and relax!

"Over the next few years we'll be investing a huge amount of time and money in our allotments, and I'm hoping that we'll be able to enter some of them into next year's Green Pennant awards which are judged by the Civic Trust. 

"The awards are given to high quality green spaces which are looked after by voluntary and community groups - and I think some plot holders do fantastic jobs and their commitment should be recognised."

Around 140 plots are vacant across the 23 sites.  Currently, there are vacancies at Ashfield in Knotty Ash, Marlborough in Clubmoor and New Area in Fazakerley.  

National Allotment Week
This week is National Allotment Week.  Many allotments are holding open days to welcome the curious; why not drop in.  Your local authority will have a list of allotments in your area.