A NORTH YORKSHIRE farmer and his son are setting out to prove that the grass really can be greener on your own side of the fence.

Michael Newland, 43, who for the past 23 years has worked a 300-acre arable farm at Tollerton, and his son, Charles, have launched a GreenThumb franchise - a lawn treatment service for homes across the region, including York, Selby and Market Weighton.

Charles, 21, who studied agriculture at Bishop Burton College is the fourth generation to help out on the Tollerton farm, but his father said: "Times have dictated that we move into other areas."

Michael, whose younger son, John, 19, is studying economics at Leicester University, said: "My wife, Caroline, a qualified reflexologist and aromatherapist, will be helping out so it will be a real family business.

"It is an excellent venture for me to go into as I already have a thorough understanding of plant care and managing the soil. Three generations of my family have lived and farmed here and we know the people and the area inside out."

The Newlands timed their launch for the verge of spring when gardeners' minds are concentrated on the lawnmower. Prices start from £13 per application.

Updated: 09:20 Tuesday, April 08, 2003