A ‘BACK to nature’ project in Braithwaite is opening up its allotment for Keighley groups to take part in a range of activities.

The Cabbage Club, which was this week praised by town councillor John Kirby, hopes to generate income as secure its long-term future.

Club members have spent the summer growing food following two years of repair and development work on the site off North Dean Road.

They made their first foray off the site to this month’s Braithwaite and Guide House Gala to sell ‘street food’ using their produce.

They now plan to run other activities for both adult and young people’s groups to generate a long-term income stream to replace dwindling grant money.

Activities could include adult workshops in forestcraft, chutney making and creating things from recycled goods, children’s holiday schemes; camping facilities for Scout groups; and a cafe for dog walkers using the nearby footpaths.

A spokesman for the Cabbage Club said. “We’re looking to form a constituted group, an independent voluntary organisation to support social enterprise.

“It will be run as an outdoor community centre, a healthy alternative to sitting all day jabbering on your smart phone. We’re going to expand the range of activities.”

“We’re looking at a completely off grid experience, to do things that don’t rely on electricity.”

John Kirby, chairman of Keighley Town Council allotments committee, was bowled over by the Cabbage Club when he attended a session last week. (September 22)

He said: “It’s a beautiful site. The hard work they have put in is tremendous. They contribute to the community and they’re looking forward.

“People from other parts of Keighley should go to have lunch with them and see what they’ve grown. If people want to set up something similar in their own area the club would be pleased to show them what to do.”

The project began in 2014 as Keighley Community Allotment, when community development worker Pip Gibson recruited residents to revitalise the rundown allotment.

It grew into the Cabbage Club, which this year received a £39,000 lottery grant from the People’s Health Trust for two years of outdoor activities for residents from both sides of the North Beck valley..

Between 15 and 30 people attended each twice-weekly session.

Anyone interested in the Cabbage Club should call Pip Gibson or email pipgibson@hotmail.co.uk, simply call at a session any Tuesday or Thursday from 10am into the afternoon.