Reader’s letter: ‘Allotments help us become more positive, healthy, and forward facing’

SIR;- Allotments are an important part of community life across England and  the rest of the United Kingdom.

This isn’t just because they let the public grow our own food, but because of the friendships which are built by the simple acts of growing food next to our neighbours; It makes us 
stronger and more understanding of oneanother despite our possible  superficial differences.

Together, tending to the beautiful natural  world graced to us in stewardship by God above helps us to relax and  appreciate the world as is, to lessen the burdens modern life places 
upon us.

While the summer months have the best weather, many allotments which are  assisted by Parish Councils or community enterprises like Providence  Pastures in Leeds still need supporting during colder months, and there  are a wealth of charities, local groups and community organisations who  can help you to be more included and involved in growing food and  meeting new friends at your local allotments or In Bloom Groups.

With all the events from abroad, climate change, and a rise in  loneliness which has been noticed since the pandemic, I do believe that  we can be more positive, healthy, and forward facing by growing food,  bearing fruit, and helping our local communities.

This way we can lessen  our afflictions to move on in a better way, which brings everyone 
together in peace. Peace is sorely needed, and maybe we can reach it, by  helping our neighbour’s gardens grow.

Cllr Tyler Callum Wilson-Kerr
Aberford & District Parish Council
Leeds, United Kingdom