THE launch of a group with the aim of growing food and making Maindee in Newport green took place this weekend.

Incredible Edible Maindee, part of an international food growing and fruit tree planting movement, was held on Saturday afternoon at Maindee Library in Chepstow Road.

At the event, there were two speakers - Sara Venn, from Incredible Edible Bristol, and Tom O’Kane, from Cae Tan Community Supported Agriculture.

Organiser Alison Starling said: “The aim of the day was to encourage people to plant and grow vegetables and fruit in community spaces.

“Today, we planted blackcurrants, peas and cabbage, amongst others.

“We want to make Maindee look nicer and provide fruit and vegetable so that people can help themselves to it.”

The project is supported by Renew Wales, which has given the group some funding.

Kelly McCarthy, who lives off Chepstow Road, attended the event.

She said: “I am really interested in growing local produce and getting involved in community activities.

“I moved to Maindee about four years ago and I think projects like this can rejuvenate the area. It gives a sense of pride to the community and it gets people active without them thinking about it.

“It is really exciting, I am looking forward to working with people from all backgrounds and ages and see what we can learn from each other.”