A VOLUNTEER group that grows food for free all over Skipton is celebrating after getting a community fund grant of nearly £10,000 from the National Lottery.

It means Incredible Edible will be able to carry on growing food such as vegetables, fruits and herbs available to anyone to pick for free.

In addition to helping people out in Skipton with healthy, organic food, it creates a sharing, caring environment, says the group. The raised beds, where the produce is grown, and which are all over the town, also benefit wildlife, and improve the look of the area.

Incredible Edible was formed in 2018 and is run entirely by volunteers. It is based at its community allotment at the town council's Middletown Allotments, and also has a community orchard on Middletown recreation ground, planted in 2021.

It also has raised beds at Duke Street, St Andrew’s church on Newmarket Street, the Craven Arts Centre, Christ Church on Keighley Road, and the play area by The Ginnel and Raikes Road Recreation ground - all where people can go and pick what they want.

A group spokesperson said: "We plan to spend some of the grant on improving the community orchard up on the Middletown 'Rec' behind Greatwood school."

Skipton's first 'apple day' is due to be held at Middletown Rec on October 22 from 12 to 3pm. It will include an apple press for juice making, smoothie bike, children’s activities and apple cakes and products. People are being encouraged to take along their own apples and bottles to make freshly squeezed juice.

The spokesperson added: "Incredible Edible Skipton welcomes new volunteers of all ages to its friendly group throughout the year. Work parties take place at the community allotment every first and third Saturday of the month from 10am to 12 noon, and every Wednesday, currently from 6pm to 7pm and 10am to 11.30am from October 1.

Incredible Edible works in partnership with other Skipton organisations, including the scouts, St. Andrew’s Church, Christ Church, Skipton in Bloom and the Civic Society.

It is part of the global Incredible Edible network that has more than 100 groups in the UK. Its vision is to create kind, confident, and connected communities through the power of food.

To get to the Incredible Edible allotment, follow the signs from the end of East Castle Street. For more information search for Incredible Edible Skipton on Facebook or email ieskipton@gmail.com.