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BUDDING young gardeners in Trowbridge are being given the chance to become pumpkin record breakers.

Palmer Gardens in Islington has grown hundreds of burgeoning pumpkins for under-16s to plant out and nurture in the race to produce the biggest Halloween lantern in town.

The free pumpkins are the latest gift to the community from the Shaw Trust team at the garden centre, a social enterprise business which offers training and work opportunities for disabled and disadvantaged people.

"We are eager to encourage the community, and in particular local schools, to use the amenities here," said manager Mark Bradbury, who is also working on a nature trail.

"The great pumpkin give away is an all round winner for us. Children are always excited about Halloween and this gets children interested in gardening. It will also encourage them to look at the five vegetables and fruit a day message anew.

"There is nothing like growing your own, and vegetables picked fresh contain more nutrients. Given a good sunny spot, plenty of water and feed, the children should be able to grow some whoppers."

Children under 16 can pick up their plant any time from today until May 25 during normal opening hours.

Then the youngsters are invited to bring their monster pumpkins back for the October 27 weigh in, which will be judged by David Tucker, chairman of South Wiltshire Allotments Society and secretary of the National Vegetable Society, South West district.

1:10pm Saturday 10th May 2008

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