SEPT 18, 2009: A new initiative in Manchester aims to encourage everyone in the city to grow their own food.

Paul Peacock, presenter of the Allotment Channel and author of several self sufficiency books, is heading up the scheme in association with Manchester City Council. The council has already put in place the foundations for growing food in public parks for people to pick their own, with plans to branch out on to the streets, teaching people how to grow in their back yards. It is Paul’s aim to eventually introduce the scheme to other cities. He wants to educate all ages about self-sufficiency through training days and social events. There are also plans to buy beehives for schools, and link them with allotments, parks and the local estates.