Garden party for the folk down on the plot; GREEN & GORGEOUS

THEY'VE got green-fingers in the Holme Valley and organisers behind a community allotment are inviting you to join them.

Mark, who lives in Wooldale, said: "Having had to finish work because of my health, some days I find it hard to see a purpose, but doing a bit of weeding, planting or being outside pottering amongst the plants gives me that purpose and lifts the spirit.The Network was set up in 2009 by Elaine and Helen Scott, who shared an allotment. They decided they wanted to set up a supportive network and called a public meeting which was attended by more than 40 people.* DIGGING IN: Mark Dickinson, of Wooldale, is involved in the Holme Valley Gardening Network and, right, Elaine Thlier at workProject Manager Elaine Thlier said the main emphasis was on using the outdoors to help improve people's health.She said: "The great thing about gardening is you are getting fresh air, fresh vegetables and you are subtly doing exercise.CAPTION(S):"It really does help get your problems into perspective when you talk to others about their health problems."The project is funded by Kirklees Community Partnership and Kirklees Council Environment Unit, and supported by the Independent Co-Operative Society, Methodist Church, Quakers in Wooldale and Holmfirth Transition Town.The Independent Co-operative Society offered them a field at Wooldale for the allotment, used by more than 30 families. The network, soon to become a social enterprise, also has an allotment at Royd's Avenue in New Mill. To get involved go along to the garden party in Wooldale at the allotment behind Wooldale Co-op on Saturday from 2pm until 5pm."For a lot of people who don't want to go down the traditional route of going to a gym, it is a great way to keep moving and keep fit.An open session takes place this Thursday at the allotments from 11am until midday. For more information contact Elaine on 0794 9414163 or email: info@hvgn.orgAnd it has helped Mark Dickinson, 52, who suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2007 while playing football.As part of his recovery he joined one of Elaine's gardening courses and is now a member of the network's advisory committee."All in all it is a great combination, particularly for people who may have health issues. It's amazing how it can change your mood and help you feel better."It features raised beds and wheelchair-friendly paths and is aimed at anyone who has a health issue or who cares for someone with health concerns to have a go at fruit, vegetable and herb gardening.

* DIGGING IN: Mark Dickinson, of Wooldale, is involved in the Holme Valley Gardening Network and, right, Elaine Thlier at work