The rail operator is inspiring Penrith’s green-fingered locals to donate excess seeds and plants as part of a community enterprise to encourage the people of Penrith to get gardening.

Local volunteer gardening group Penrith Community Gardeners have teamed up with Avanti West Coast to create a donation point at Penrith station for unwanted seeds, seedlings and plants.

The initiative hopes to use surplus items whilst encouraging sustainable gardening and inspiring more people to have a go at growing their own plants.

People wishing to take part in the green-fingered scheme can place their donations in the handcart, which can be found at the station’s main entrance.

Newcomers to gardening can take items they wish to have a try at and can also leave a small monetary donation if they like, which will support the ongoing work of Penrith Community Gardeners who take care of the planters at Penrith station.

Contributions from the local community have so far seen 250 strawberry plants alongside plentiful seeds and gardening magazines with funds raised of over £200 for the volunteer gardeners and will be used to brighten up the town with blooms.

Joan Robinson of Penrith Community Gardeners said:

“Gardening can bring joy to many – it can connect people and make a difference to our places and spaces. With Avanti West Coast we want to spread this joy by encouraging donations from our community. We know there will be gardeners out there with surplus seedlings and plants they’re splitting up. Even books that might help others to get started are useful. Any contributions will be welcome to get people growing their own plants.”

Natalie Balmer, Avanti West Coast Community Champion at Penrith, said:

“We want to make a difference in the communities we serve, so we’re pleased to be working with Penrith Community Gardeners to provide a dedicated space at the station where people can make donations of seeds and plants to help others.

“By supporting local people to grow their own vegetables we hope it will enable them to take up gardening and become more self-sufficient. We’re delighted with the response so far and would like to thank everyone for their donations, as we help expand the green-fingered community here in Penrith.”