New trustees for former farmer's field as Lancaster community asset becomes a charity

The empty six acre field in Ridge Lane, known as Claver Hill, was bought in 2013 and is now home to more than an acre of no-dig vegetable beds, three polytunnels, a tree nursery, bees, a lake, a nature trail and community cafe and much more, all connected up by a new accessible path.

Volunteers run eight different projects on the Claver Hill field, which is situated behind Central Lancaster High School on the Ridge. There are outdoor activities going on most days of the week and members of the public are welcome to drop by anytime but especially on Friday or Sunday afternoons, to have a look around and learn more.

Caroline Jackson, who bought the field in 2013 with friend Joy Warren, said: "Joy and I wanted to create a community space where people could come to learn to grow food together and enjoy being out in nature and in touch with their environment.

"We have been blessed by so many people, both local and from around the world, who put their skills and time into Claver Hill.

"I am looking forward to deeding the land to the charity now, so it can be a resource for the community for many, many years to come."

Steve Jenkins, trustee and longtime organiser of the Claver Hill Spud Club, said: "There is always space up here for new members who want to enjoy friendly company and to learn and contribute to the community.

"Our activities are generally free, you can join in as much or little as you want and there are tasty fruits and vegetables for harvesting and taking away. You can get in touch through our Facebook site Spud Club at Claver Hill."

Claver Hill is holding a Taster Day on September 21, 11am until 4pm. Find them on Ridge Lane at postcode LA1 3JY. Everyone is welcome!

The new Claver Hill trustees are Caroline Jackson, Anne Chapman and Steve Jenkins.

Find out more about Claver Hill online at https://sites.google.com/view/claver-hill/