Now a Kineton group is lending a helping hand to those who would like to grow vegetables by setting up two demonstration plots in the village.

The 2x2m beds were planted by a team of residents, who are continuing to manage them with the help of the recently formed Getting Kineton Growing.

Volunteers from the group will hold demonstrations of specific growing activities, during which allotment novices will learn about growing and be able to gain experience without actually owning an allotment of their own.

Organiser Myles Bremner said: "We do appreciate that this initiative is quite a big step for Kineton, but we hope people will lend their support to the scheme, either by actively joining in, or simply by enjoying the sight of fresh, delicious vegetables growing in the heart of our village."

Vegetables produced will be distributed among residents or sold to raise money for further growing activities.

Stratford District Council, responsible for planning, has granted permission for the plots provided they are properly maintained and managed at all times.

At the end of each growing season, the sites will be re-turfed and returned to their usual state.

Mr Bremner added: "It is not so long ago that market gardens and allotments provided Kineton with an abundant supply of fresh produce for all.

"We hope that this new initiative will act both as a reminder of how self-sufficient the village once was, and as a springboard for a new generation of growers and growing."

Mr Bremner and other members will be handing out information and advice about growing at the village's next farmers' market on Saturday July 11.

The group is encouraging visitors to bring their own home-grown produce to the event in Market Square to swap, sell or barter.

The village's third farmers' market this year will include stalls selling locally-produced bread, meat, cheese, vegetables, eggs, cakes and beer, and there will be a hog roast, live music and 'bicycle doctor'.

The event will start at 10am. Anyone who would like a stall should contact Rachel Pimm-Smith on 641847.