A FARMER is offering land for allotments to meet the growing demand from budding gardeners in Braunton for such sites.

Julian Avery owns three acres of farming land in Field Lane near Tesco which he said could be used by local people for allotments.

Mr Avery, who grew vegetables for 15 years for the former Brian Ford supermarket in Barnstaple, said: "I have had a few inquiries about allotments and the local waiting list has around 50 people. This could really help the situation in Braunton."

Mr Avery, 41, continues to produce cauliflower and cabbage and started a vegetable box business in November.

The land would be available to gardeners, or perhaps a new allotment association, under a tenancy agreement.

Mr Avery also said he would like to purchase any spare vegetables, which are produced by new allotment holders.

He said: "The land is surplus to requirement because it was primarily for Brian Ford production. If there is enough interest I would be willing to let people use it for allotments.

"The area is accessible and it is prime land because it was once part of the Braunton Great Field farming system."

● Anyone interested can contact Mr Avery on 01271 817800 or jsa1@talktalk.net.