Hello all

Happy new year- the start of another growing season is upon us but before we embark, let’s have a recap on 2011.

A very successful year in the amount and variety of produce grown but more importantly, DIG IN has reached out to many local local families, adults and children and local groups. Pulp Friction took over the fruit beds and with the fantastic commitment from the Swain family, they developed the wilderness into a wonderful productive and creative space. Our memorial tree to Chris, who’s passing left a sadness to the year, was planted in November and stands in the orchard. Thanks to all the volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make DIG IN’s success ongoing. Thanks to Lauren- the DIG FOR LIFE project worker, who has worked above and beyond expectations.

Thanks for everyone who has supported us and been involved or attended events, cook and eats or workshops at the site. Apple and Pumpkin day alone drew in over 250 local families. Thanks for the ongoing support shown by Stapleford Town Council. 2011 saw the very first DIG IN wins at the Stapleford and district allotments show in August. We hope to expand on the comedy veg and grapes in 2012! A complete report on the activities of 2011 will be available at the DIG IN AGM in May 2012.More details will be posted on the website and blog nearer the date.

DIG IN can only be as good as the people in it. More volunteers are needed to be part of the decision making and running of DIG IN, to work on site at the sessions and be part of the management committee. We need your help to plan and run the events and workshops and we need your ideas to keep DIG IN part of the local community of Stapleford. The demands on your time can be as minimal as you want but the rewards are huge. If you are interested in sharing your skills and ideas, or interested in developing new skills (writing press releases, funding bids, treasurer/ secretary skills/DIY skills/events planning etc), being involved with DIG IN may give you more than just growing experience. We are taking time over the winter to plan for site growing and the activities for 2012, so if you have any ideas you think will work well at DIG IN please let us know.

In 2012, we will continue with our growing activities on site, funding permitting we will hold events open to the public and run workshops to encourage an interest and knowledge in a variety of food and environmental interests. We aim to secure funding for worker time which will enable groups to have support for onsite growing sessions. We aim to reach more local people and spread the word about how fantastic it is to grow your own veggies.

Breaking news... early 2012 will also see an onsite development of an eco toilet. Many thanks to all involved from funding, planning, negotiating and commitment to seeing the build happen. Watch this space...

Happy New Growing Year to all from DIG IN.