SIX families are working together to overcome the pressures of Covid19 in their small community west of York.

They are growing food in a community allotment on a smallholding owned by the head of a local medicine and food bank delivery team, Arnold Warnekan.

“Being outside in the spring sunshine, listening to birdsong, and watching the butterflies in the breeze really helps people to adjust mentally to new unfamiliar lifestyles,” he said.

“And as a bonus in a few weeks time, we can harvest our first crops to help feed ourselves, with everything from radishes to rocket to runner beans”

“I am a great believer in taking practical steps to build a strong community - it can be lonely living in a rural village even in normal times, with no public transport, shop, pub or meeting place”

“With the added pressure of COVID, some people are really struggling to cope.

“Please do contact me on arnold@selby.greenparty.org.uk if you know someone who needs help,”

His team works with Wetherby and Boroughbridge food banks.

The community allotment in Cowthorpe near the A1(M), was launched by Harrogate District Green Party.