Bradford on Avon's second Seedy Sunday a success (From Wiltshire Times)

Bradford on Avon's second Seedy Sunday a success

3:00pm Sunday 19th February 2012 in Bradford By Craig Jones

Bradford on Avon’s second annual Seedy Sunday event held in St Margaret’s Hall gave prospective gardeners food for thought on Sunday.

The event aimed to inspire local people to grow their own food and plants while a seed swap ensured that heritage seeds do not become extinct.

Around 200 people attended the event, swapping new and old seeds in the hall.

Organiser Sara Cundy, of Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, said: “It was a brilliant event, I was really impressed by how many people came and I think everyone learnt a thing or two.

“We had 20 stalls which were run by local community groups, who gave talks about renewable food growth, for the those wanting to grow their own food, while there were quite a few demonstrations too.”

The event in Bradford on Avon was part of a national campaign to ensure seeds are used again after plants have flowered, which first began in Brighton 11 years ago.

The seed swap also aims to promote diversity in plant growing with different types of fruit and vegetables having a better chance of growing all across the country rather than in specific places.

Miss Cundy said: “By swapping the seeds we are helping to maintain varieties of plants which aren’t seen as being viable anymore through biodiversity. Sunday’s event was very successful and I’m looking forward to next year’s Seedy Sunday.

“I think a huge thank you needs to go to everyone who attended, to those who held stalls on the day and to the many volunteers who gave their time. ”