HALTON’S biggest allotment is hoping to instal new toilets.

Haddocks Wood Allotment Society in Runcorn raised almost £700 from a plant sale and family fun day.

They have applied to the Big Lottery Fund for a grant and are keeping their fingers crossed that they will be successful.

Secretary Jay Carr, aged 39, from Castlefields, said: “They call allotments the new green gyms.

“They get people out digging and doing exercise. It keeps you fit.

“We are getting more and more women, families, kids and young people.”

Halton Hospital has a plot to provide occupational therapy for patients recovering from brain injury and strokes.

The Brooker Centre also has a community plot.

Jay added: “Gardening provides great therapy.

“I waited five years for my plot. I grow cabbages, sprouts, garlic and pumpkins.

“I always like to try something different like cucamelons. They are grape sized watermelons that taste of cucumber with a tinge of lime.”