Volunteers sought to join the new Lesmahagow Allotments Volunteering Team

Leave the stresses and strains of everyday life behind you by volunteering in the tranquil Lesmahagow allotments.

The new group started on Tuesday 11 April and meets every second Tuesday, 10:30am - 12:30pm. It is led by experienced gardeners from Lesmahagow Development Trust and Clydesdale Community Initiatives (CCI).

Put your green fingers to good use or learn new skills from the team. Newcomers are welcome – there are always plenty of simple jobs that can be done and someone on hand to give pointers and advice.

There are plenty of jobs of varying levels to keep all occupied whilst allowing you to get some fresh air, learn new skills, meet new people, have fun AND get your hands dirty. Volunteers are urgently required to assist in essential maintenance such as planting, pruning, weeding and dead heading and all are important in the ongoing maintenance of the allotments.

Volunteers would be contributing to a vibrant community of people of all ages and backgrounds – from school groups to retirees those experiencing mental health issues, young and old.

A number of allotment plots are also available to members of the public. Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for details. The allotments have been designed to be accessible to all with the provision of ramps and the site also includes a tool cabin and toilets.

The organiser of the volunteer group, Helen Thomson of Clydesdale Community Initiatives CCI, said, "Tools are provided, but you do need to come suitably dressed for outdoor work in all weathers with a packed lunch and be prepared to get dirty.  Support and advice will be provided throughout.  It's a great help if volunteers can bring hand tools if they have some; pruning shears etc, but we will have some available to borrow and we will provide hot drinks!”

The Lesmahagow allotments are a valuable resource for the Lesmahagow community, allowing families and residents to look towards a more sustainable future through growing their own produce and reducing food miles. They were completed in 2015 as part of the Heritage Lottery Fund supported Clyde and Avon Valley Landscape Partnership, with additional support from the Climate Challenge Fund, Central Scotland Green Network Trust and the Forestry Commission.

Donna Marshall, CAVLP Programme Manager says, “We were delighted to support the Lesmahagow Development Trust in the creation of this fantastic local facility.  Allotment sites often replicate the community spirit that is unfortunately lost in many of the areas where we live.  Allotments are a unique resource and allotment gardening provides multiple benefits to individuals; communities and the wider environment.  By taking part in these allotment volunteering sessions, you'll be able to meet like-minded people who care about the environment and local growing.  Volunteering outdoors is also a great way of improving your physical health and mental wellbeing.”

Anyone interested in volunteering should register to attend with CCI by contacting This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01555 664211.