A new green oasis has helped bring a little agricultural fat of the land into the heart of a city and open up opportunities for gardeners to grow their own produce.
People living near the plot have been given their first look inside the hidden oasis in Exeter City Centre.
Located behind green gates just across from the Trews Weir suspension bridge in a stunning riverside location, the Weirfield Meadows Allotment Gardens feature around 40 plots growing a range of vegetables and flowers.
It was opened up as part of the National Garden Scheme and more than 100 members of the public looked around the site in return for a donation to charity over last weekend.
Feedback from visitors was overwhelming positive, according to organisers.
Beverley Langley said: "This is the first year we have done this and we have had lots of visitors this weekend. So far more than 100 have been through the gates, spanning all generations, which is great especially considering the weather was so appalling on Sunday.
"These allotments are an oasis in the centre of the city and a lot of people have always been curious about what goes on behind these green gates. One woman has been walking past here for 40 years and said she had always wondered what it was like."
Ms Langley said a great community spirit exists between the allotment holders.
She said: "We have lots of people interested in coming here. People have a stereotype of what an allotment holder is. Over the last few years people have been taking a lot more interest in what is in their food and how it is grown.
"In recent years there has definitely been a boom.
"This is a thriving community and this is such a beautiful, idyllic setting that just happens to be by the river. The feedback we have had has been incredible. We would definitely look to open them up to the public again."
Ms Langley has been an allotment holder herself on the site for the last four years.
She said: "I started as I wanted to try to grow my own fruit and veg. There is a great sense of achievement when you do.
"There is also the benefit of saving money and knowing what goes into your food. To keep a plot in a reasonable condition you probably need to spend around four or five hours a week totally focused.
"I have a full-time job and it can be done alongside this. I live in the Quay so have no outside space. This is my garden."
Among the other allotment holders is Dave Davies and Cathryn Keeler, who live in St Leonard's.
Mr Davies said: "We used to take walks along here and peer through the gates. I thought one day I would love one, and when the opportunity came up it was a no-brainer. It is such a great community down here. It is not just the pleasure of having an allotment but the atmosphere and the friends you make.
"We end up growing so much we have to give a lot of it away. The whole thing has surpassed my expectations so much. I thought it would be something for Cathryn but we have both really enjoyed it. You can just lose yourself in it.
"I would say to people interested in an allotment don't hesitate. Just go for it as you won't regret it."
Alison Hosler, of Exeter, has had an allotment there for four years. She said: "I only have a small garden so this is what keeps me sane. Pottering about here is just so relaxing."
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