A groundbreaking partnership between East Devon District Council (EDDC), Suez and Coastal Recycling, is aiding the community project, Devon Dig and Donate.

EDDC has played a crucial role by donating a tonne of cardboard collected from residents.

Suez has facilitated this by transporting the cardboard from EDDC’s Materials Recycling Facility to the Devon Dig and Donate site in Broadclyst.

Devon Dig and Donate grows food for vulnerable residents in East Devon and Exeter.

Almost 30 tonnes of compost, derived from the green waste collections of EDDC from residents, has been delivered to the project by Coastal Recycling.

The cardboard and compost are key ingredients in the creation of no-dig vegetable beds, on which a variety of fruits and vegetables will be grown.

These healthy, nutritious produce will fulfil the needs of food banks and other community food initiatives.

In addition, SUEZ has transported 2 tonnes of wood chippings from Streetscene parks maintenance team to the site.

These are being put to use in constructing pathways between the growing beds to make the site more accessible for all, including individuals in wheelchairs.

Councillor Geoff Jung, portfolio holder for Coast, Country and Environment at EDDC, said:

"My sincere thanks go to all the hard-working teams for their help on this project.

"Without all the different organisations pulling together, Devon Dig and Donate would not be able to grow as much food for local families.

"It’s a great example of what can be achieved with public, private and charity cross-sector working when each different team does a little, to help a lot."

Rhiannon Alcock of Dig and Donate, said:

"Creating a growing space of this size from scratch with limited funding can be a daunting task, but thanks to the team at EDDC, Suez and Coastal recycling, we have been able to start creating our community garden to maximize this year’s growing season.

"We are extremely grateful for the support the teams have given us, especially those going above and beyond to drop off resources in their own time.

"It really does show when the local community and organizations rally round to support you, anything is possible!

"Developing partnerships like this is what community and grass roots projects are all about and we are so thankful that we have the support of these teams as we develop the site and the project."

The project invites volunteers of any age, background or ability - to contribute to its mission.

The growing sessions are held every Wednesday from 6pm-8pm and Saturday mornings from 10am to 12pm at Heathfield Farm in Broadclyst.